Eastman Kodak is celebrating the grand opening of the company's first visitor center in Rochester.
Officials from Kodak, and state and local government joined business leaders and others at the Kodak Center, formerly Theatre on the Ridge to cut the ribbon on the new project.
Kodak CFO Dave Bullwinkle says the center features many historic artifacts courtesy of the George Eastman Museum.
"The exhibit itself goes through the 130 year history of Kodak, so you'll see things from film cameras to inkjet printers and commercial printing which is what we do today," he said.
Kodak CEO Jeff Clark says the new visitor center covers everything from the Brownie camera, to Kodak's first digital camera to the company's current foray into commercial printing.
He says it's open to everyone.
"Retirees, the public, people who love Kodak, to experience Kodak again. No longer are we a gate that is locked, we're open to the community. Come see the history of Rochester, of Kodak, and of many of your friends or in many cases you if you're a Kodak employee," he said.
Congressman Joe Morelle added that the story of Kodak is also the story of Rochester.
"It's seen the challenges of rebirth, and a refocus, but it is more vibrant than ever and I think that's a testament to thier resiliency which is really the story of Rochester," he said.
There's also a cafe, retail store and an exhibition of the work of long-time Kodak photographer Neil Montanus which has never officially displayed by the company.
The visitor center is open weekdays from 9 to 5 at 200 West Ridge Road.
Kodak CEO Jeff Clarke says the purpose of the center is for people to enjoy the history of Kodak:
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