Rochester City Council on Tuesday night approved funding for a study of a proposal performing arts center and residential complex on Parcel 5.
Council voted 8 -1 to have a consultant do additional research into the proposed Golisano Arts & Entertainment Complex. Council member Molly Clifford cast the only ‘no’ vote.
She says she doesn't want to waste taxpayer money.
"We have already paid $200,000 to this company for a study for a project that is now in its third iteration. To me it just didn't make sense to spend more money on a study for a project that has yet to be finalized in anyone's mind."
Mayor Lovely Warren recently announced that that the proposal was updated to include an IMAX cinema and rooftoop space.
The measure that was passed by council last night authorizes up to $66,435 for additional services with Cleveland-based DLR Group/Westlake Reed Leskosky, which had prepared an earlier feasibility study for the downtown complex.
The consultant will be available to answer supplemental questions about its original feasibility study done in 2016.
Clifford says the city should pay for a truly independent study once the project details are finalized. The 2016 DLR study was partially funded by the Rochester Broadway Theater League.
Clifford's remaining questions about the project include its total cost, whether it would be able to operate without city or state subsidies, and whether the concept has grassroots community support.
Mayor Lovely Warren says the vote on Tuesday night shows there is “overwhelming support” to move forward with the study and is a strong first step toward getting the project off the ground.
