Polk State to host ribbon cutting for newly renovated Winter Haven Fine Arts Building
Polk State College will host a ribbon cutting for the newly renovated Winter Haven Fine Arts Building which will include a reception and special performance by renowned R&B group Uptown.
The newly revamped facility marks a significant milestone in the College’s commitment to enhancing student experiences and supporting the arts. The ribbon cutting also serves as the second public celebration of Polk State’s 60th anniversary.
Tuesday, January 21, 2025
999 Ave. H N.E., Winter Haven | Winter Haven Fine Arts Theatre
Ribbon Cutting – 5:30 p.m.
Reception – 6:15 p.m.
Performance – 7:30 p.m.
Members of the public can RSVP to tinyurl.com/WFAticket
Members of the media can RSVP to mfantozzi@polk.edu
The ribbon cutting will begin promptly at 5:30 p.m. The reception and special performance will follow. Attendees can RSVP for the ribbon cutting or the ribbon cutting and special performance combined to ensure seating for both portions of the event.
The Legislature allocated $16.2 million in Public Education Capital Outlay (PECO) funds in 2021 to renovate the 65,000-square-foot facility that opened in 1978. Construction began in May 2023, with the building closing in phases to lessen potential impacts on classes, students, and employees. The building officially reopened on schedule for the Spring 2025 Semester.
The renovation project was led by Rowe Architects, with AD Morgan Corporation and DuCon serving as the construction managers.
Enhancements include a new roof and bricks to the exterior, a new heating and air conditioning system, as well as upgrades to the band and music rooms, practice rooms, dressing areas, gallery, theatre, and many of the classrooms for Music, Theatre, and Visual Arts students.
The renovations will allow Polk State to expand the quality of programming and meet the growing technology needs of students, faculty, performers, and the many community members who utilize the Winter Haven Fine Arts Building.