(NASHVILLE) – State Representative Matthew Hill (R-Jonesborough) today announced that he has secured $500,000 in funding for the renovation and restoration of the Jackson Theatre. The monies are a part of Governor Haslam’s 2018-2019 fiscal year budget.
From its humble beginnings as a furniture store in the 1800s, the theatre served as a center for entertainment throughout the early 20th century in the Town of Jonesborough before it was turned into office space in the 1950s. Last year, it was announced that the 3-story building was being restored to its 1940s decor. The new facility will consolidate the Charles Allen Building, the old Jackson Theatre, and the Jonesborough Reparatory Theatre and is expected to serve as a music venue, theatre, and independent film house capable of accommodating more than 320 people.
Representative Hill recognizes the building’s place in the ongoing revitalization efforts of Tennessee’s oldest town and is pleased to see this project receive much-needed funding.
“I have fought to ensure that the Jackson Theatre receives the support it needs, and I am satisfied that this project has been included as part of the governor’s budget,” said Representative Hill. “The Jackson Theatre is an integral part of downtown, and this money will go a long way towards renovating and preserving a fixture of our local history. I am grateful to Governor Haslam for supporting this project.”
Matthew Hill serves as a member of the House Finance, Ways, & Means and House Health Committees. Hill is also a member of the House Health and House Rules Subcommittees. He lives in Jonesborough and represents District 7, which includes a portion of Washington County. Hill can be reached by email at [email protected] or by calling (615) 741-2251.