Metroplex Approves Funding for Proctors Arcade Upgrade

Schenectady, NY (Aug. 13) – The Schenectady County Metroplex Board of Directors met last evening and approved a $146,000 grant to upgrade the Proctors Arcade, a main thoroughfare downtown that connects State Street and the three theaters within Proctors – the MainStage, GE Theatre and The Addy, plus Key Hall, and other community gathering places.

“Unlike most traditional theatres with a main entrance visible from the street, Proctors is serviced by an arcade, essentially a long hallway that provides access to multiple venues within Proctors that make this a leading arts and entertainment destination in the Capital Region,” said Ray Gillen, Metroplex Chair. “With this investment, we are upgrading the Arcade just in time for Proctors 100th anniversary this December.”

Philip Morris, CEO of Proctors said, “When you consider that over 750,000 people a year come into or through the Arcade for performances, education, movies, meetings, the Greenmarket, or any of the other 1,700 events that happen, it is amazing how well the building works. At the same time, there is continuous wear on all of the parts people touch and see. This support goes beyond maintenance and helps us to actually rebuild some of what has worked so hard for so long. A great 100th birthday present!”

The planned upgrades include:

• Repair of eleven chandeliers that line the arcade improving lighting and energy efficiency.
• Repair of the terrazzo floor at both entryways to the Arcade.
• Replacement of doors at each end of the Arcade improving accessibility and energy efficiency.
• Repair/repaint walls and apply gold leaf paint bringing back to original condition the Arcade’s beauty.
• Create a new interior marquee for the box office area.
• Build a new security door on the Stratton Plaza side of the Arcade.
• Paint exterior sign at rear of the theatre.