The long-planned revitalization of the Guadalupe Royal Theater has taken a big step forward with the awarding of a contractor to spearhead the project, which still has a $3 million shortfall.

The City Council approved a contract with PreCon Industries of Santa Maria with a base bid of nearly $9.8 million to complete the shell of the project. The bid and proposal submitted have options for alternatives to complete the interior and other new features.

“This project means a great deal to the community, and the extra time it has taken feels worthwhile,” project manager Tom Brandeberry said. “With PreCon Industries on board to complete the renovation, it seems like a positive outcome is finally within reach. 

“I’m excited to say that the community should get ready to witness the beautiful transformation of this vital community space.”

To cover the estimated $2.9 million shortfall, Guadalupe has launched a capital campaign to raise funds and continues to seek applicants to serve on an oversight committee after getting only a couple of volunteers.

The city is seeking five people to serve on the Royal Theater Oversight Committee, which will serve as an advisory body.  

Applicants must be Guadalupe residents or have a demonstrated connection to the community (such as business ownership, cultural involvement or relevant professional experience). Individuals with experience in arts, historic preservation, community development, nonprofit management or economic revitalization are especially encouraged to apply, according to city leaders.

Details about how to apply for the oversight committee can be found by clicking here.

The project now involves restoring the historic structure and adding a one-story building after an ambitious three-story proposal exceeded the budget and led to a redesign, trimming the new proposal. 

Construction should start in December with the project’s completion expected to be in March 2027, according to the current timeline. Plans are in the works for a groundbreaking ceremony before the end of the year, Brandeberry said.

In 2022, the city received $10.5 million in grants, but reportedly has spent at least $2 million so far, including tripling the architect’s cost to redesign the project. Originally, the architect’s contract amounted to approximately $280,000 but now exceeds $1 million because of changes, project officials said.

Some council members and local residents have raised questions about the project’s spending so far. 

Despite trimming the project’s scope, the city recognized the funding shortage, leading to the creation of five options that add up to $1.5 million beyond the basic building.

That includes acquiring and installing audio-visual equipment for $762,000 and creating an exterior front plaza, exterior amphitheater and exterior stage for $142,000.

The new building’s interior floor and ceiling finishes, interior doors, fixtures, mechanical equipment for the kitchen, restrooms, green room, classroom, lobby and concessions will take another $222,000. 

The new building’s completion of the kitchen would require $310,000, while the full audio-visual build-out will add another $128,000, according to the city’s estimates.

Built in 1939, the Royal Theater operated until 1989 followed by various efforts to revive the site, including using it as a performing arts theater and public meeting space. In 2011, the building was red-tagged after a minor interior electrical fire. 

To donate to the Royal Theater capital campaign, click here.