BandWith’s future performing arts center
CHICAGO, July 24, 2024 – Landmarks Illinois is proud to announce it has awarded a $500,000 loan to BandWith, a nonprofit providing access to the performing arts in Chicago’s underserved communities, for the adaptive reuse of the former Loyal Casket Building in East Garfield Park. This significant financial support provided through Landmarks Illinois’ Reinvestment Program Loan Fund will help BandWith thoughtfully transform the historic building at 134 S. California Ave. into a vibrant community performing arts center.
BandWith will use Landmarks Illinois’ loan to cover critical project planning costs associated with the restoration and reuse of the former casket factory, including design fees and energy efficiency and operational planning. Once complete, BandWith’s new home will serve as its headquarters and provide space for free youth dance, drumline, sound engineering, instrumental and choral ensemble programs. It will also feature retail and communal spaces for partner organizations to use. BandWith plans to break ground on the project this fall, with an expected completion date in 2025.
“Our Reinvestment Loan Program has proven to be a critical addition to the preservation incentives Landmarks Illinois offers, helping spark reinvestment and reuse of culturally significant and historic places,” said Landmarks Illinois President & CEO Bonnie McDonald. “We are thrilled to support BandWith’s vision to revitalize a former factory to foster a vibrant cultural environment in East Garfield Park. This project will benefit current and future generations while providing invaluable opportunities for artistic expression and community engagement.”
BandWith currently provides its free programming to 7–18-year-olds in donated space in East Garfield Park, which it has outgrown. Once complete, its larger home in the former casket building will enable BandWith to more than double the number of community members it serves.
“The generous loan from Landmarks Illinois allows BandWith to move forward with creating a permanent home, giving us room to grow and continue providing high-quality arts programming to strengthen and amplify East Garfield Park’s presence as part of Chicago’s rich cultural landscape,” said Annie Palomino, BandWith’s Founder and Executive Director. “The project will contribute to the well-being, growth and vibrancy of Chicago’s West Side, cementing our commitment to being a lasting presence in the lives of the families we serve.”
