The City of Brighton reflects everything that is challenging America right now – home foreclosures, banking crises, unemployment and even a natural disaster. Yet in response, our community also demonstrates the best of what small cities and towns offer – self-reliance and a determination to invest in our own future.
On October 23, through $4.1 million in capital funding from the Brighton Urban Renewal Authority, the city will open a new community arts center between Main Street and City Hall. The Armory at Brighton Cultural Center will be the first cultural venue in town since our opera house burned in 1955. The historic Armory- one of only seven left in Colorado – is being transformed into a versatile space for art and cultural programs, exhibits and performances.
And we have done it without a dime of federal assistance.
An all-volunteer group, the heART of Brighton, kicked off a capital campaign last year, two months before the economy crashed. These volunteers-artists, performers, photographers, designers, community and cultural leaders-have raised nearly a quarter of a million dollars locally, mostly in small contributions. Combined with a generous grant from the Colorado State Department of Local Affairs, nearly $850,000 in outside funding has been secured for interior finishes and theater equipment.
Fundraising must continue, but it has been enough to open the doors. Here are some examples of how everyday people in Brighton have set aside their personal setbacks in the past year to renovate the Armory:
“A journalist contributed $5,000 knowing that his Denver employer was folding. He subsequently purchased a rundown house across the street from the Armory and started a local newspaper. He has published 10 issues supported by local advertising, as well as a monthly magazine and daily e-newsletter.
“An assistant principal at the city’s neediest school contributed $3,500. She typically starts her work day at 6 a.m. to meet with parents coming off the night shift. Her school is located one block from the Armory.
“A couple who work in healthcare and homeless assistance contribute $500 per month toward a $3,000 pledge. They also lead the community theater company.
“The local hospital, which recognizes the connection between art and community health, contributed $10,000 even while fundraising for its own critical care services.
“A farmer is planning a generous contribution despite losing 75 percent of the season’s crop to severe summer hail storms.
“A retired business executive gave $5,000 and then left town to auction off the family farm.
Why has Brighton embraced this project during the worst recession in 70 years? The Armory is integral to our economic development efforts. Later this year, 2,000 new employees will begin working at a new wind turbine manufacturing plant here. Primary employers like Vestas Wind Systems seek communities with a strong identity and cultural amenities to help them attract and keep qualified employees. We also are leveraging the Armory as a catalyst for our downtown district, attracting new visitors and spin-off business.
But most of all, the Armory will do what the arts do best-inspire, engage, and bring people together. This is especially true during hard times. Because of their commitment, the Armory will sing with the names and the stories of our citizens.
That’s why we’re inviting you to come to a week of free performances and exhibits October 25-30 by our best actors, musicians, dancers and artists. We’re also booking now for future events of local and regional appeal. See .
In Brighton, where renewable energy is key to our future, we know that creativity is also a renewable resource. Regardless of today’s circumstances, we will continue to find ways to invest in the future our community and our creative spirit.
Manuel Esquibel is Brighton’s city manager.
