The City of Elgin will hold a groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday, July 26, to celebrate the upcoming renovation and addition project for the Hemmens Cultural Center, a historic landmark and renowned venue for the performing arts in the Fox Valley. Designed and constructed by Cordogan Clark & Associates, this project aims to modernize the facility while preserving its legacy as a premier destination for national, regional, and local performing and presenting organizations.
A key element of the renovation will be the new reception area with an outdoor balcony, designed in harmony with the center’s current architecture. This addition will not only offer views of the newly renovated Civic Center Plaza but will also provide a highly requested amenity for visitors. The reception area will serve as a welcoming space for guests to gather, relax, and appreciate the vibrant atmosphere of the cultural center.
Other features of the project include the addition of accessible restrooms on the main floor, a more visible and easily accessible box office, a covered patron drop-off area and additional storage facilities. These additions address long-standing needs and aim to provide a more convenient and enjoyable experience for patrons and performers alike.
The renovations will be undertaken by Cordogan Clark, an architectural, engineering and construction firm based on Aurora.
Originally constructed in 1969 as part of the Civic Center Plaza, the Hemmens Cultural Center has played a vital role in the cultural fabric of Elgin and the Fox Valley for over five decades.
