The Roxy Bremerton Foundation was awarded a $269,000 grant this month as part of the Washington Department of Commerce Building for the Arts (BFA) program established to support community arts and nonprofit venues across the state.

The BFA funded the full amount requested by the foundation as part of their capital campaign to acquire the Historic Roxy Theatre.

“We’re very thankful for this grant that will help us fulfill our plans to acquire the theater following our original long-term lease agreement,” said Steve Sego, the foundation’s president.

“Our first objective was to update the theater with new seats, state-of-the-art sound and lights, and an HVAC system to replace the original and unusable air conditioning system. We accomplished that over the last two years, thanks to the support from so many in the community and the BFA, and are now ready to help the Roxy emerge as Center Stage of Quincy Square.”

The BFA grant was part of the capital budget signed into law May 18 by Gov. Jay Inslee and as a result of support by Sen. Emily Randall (D) of the 26th District and Rep. Drew MacEwen (R) of the 35th District. Randall and MacEwen were the key local legislative supporters for the Roxy’s grant application.

“As we begin celebrating the 80th anniversary of the Roxy this month, we’re excited to help build another 80 years of entertainment, engagement, community involvement and a gathering place for all,” Sego said.

“Once we’ve completed the theater’s acquisition and can engage in more of the planning and programming of this gem on Quincy Square, we expect that the Roxy will once again fulfill its special role as part of our storied past and audiences and patrons in the decades to come.”

The Roxy Foundation was formed just over three years ago to serve as the steward and supporter of the Historic Roxy Theatre, which has just begun the Historic Registration Designation process.