The Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra has just announced that it was awarded $10,000,000 in funding for The Plaza Live concert and event venue in the Milk District.
The Orange County Board of Commissioners voted to award the funds from the Tourist Development Tax coffers, in support of transferring the ownership of the venue to the City of Orlando; subsequent installments along with money raised by the Orchestra will allow for further enhancements and renovations of the 53-year old facility.
Phase I of the renovations were started in 2013 when the Philharmonic purchased the facility and renovated the rehearsal, backstage, and office spaces to support the orchestra’s operations.
Phase II of the project will address the transition of the facility to public ownership in partnership with the City of Orlando. The City will acquire The Plaza Live and will enter into a long-term lease agreement that will allow the Philharmonic to continue to operate within the facility.
According to an email issued by the Orchestra, Phase III of the project will modernize the building and provide better accessibility for all guests.
The vintage rotating sign atop the building was restored earlier in the month.