FOLIO
The Cultural Center at Ponte Vedra Beach has announced that the St. Johns County Commissioners have voted unanimously a 5-0 vote on the rezoning of The Oak Bridge Golf Course which will allow the Cultural Center on a potential plan to build a new center on A1A. The new center will be approximately 15,000 square feet.
The new building comes as a result of the exponential growth the center has had in recent years. The Cultural Center has been working with Alta Mar since March 2016. “We are super excited to make this dream a reality for many people in St. Johns County and the Beaches area. Having a new facility with visibility can only enhance our programming, especially bringing awareness to the Sound Connections Music Therapy program for children with special needs. It’s a win-win situation for all,” said Donna Guzzo, Executive Director.
The site plan for the new building is located on Oak Bridge off A1A. The design is being led by Jacksonville Beach based architect Mark Macco. “Arts are what separate a good community from a great community. The iconic new Ponte Vedra Arts Center will not only improve the quality of life for the area’s citizens, it will be great for local businesses,” said Macco.
During a feasibility study performed earlier this year, 91% of the individuals interviewed agreed that the work and offerings of the Cultural Center were of high importance to the community. While another 92% agreed that the 2.1 acres site adjacent to Sawgrass Village is an ideal location for the new facility. The results also demonstrated the compelling need and sense of urgency in the community for additional arts programming and education. “The BOD will continue to work hard to obtain the land and necessary funding to make this vision possible. Arts are a must to have a vibrant community. After two years of negotiations we are excited to be this close to bringing this project to completion,” said Art Hayden, President, Board of Directors.
The staff at the Cultural Center has attended every HOA meeting, Ponte Vedra Architects meeting, planning and zoning and St. Johns County Commissioners meeting in support of The Oak Bridge property. The center has intentionally partnered with multiple local organizations for this project. These specific collaborations play a huge role in the community, utilizing their greatest assets to push forward a movement of culture diversity and education.
The Cultural Center’s mission is to bring the arts into the life of the community through Arts Education, Exhibitions, and Outreach, and by honoring a Donor-Driven Philosophy.
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