Letter: Two projects, one arts and entertainment district

The Arts Center Task Force is working with the Port of Kennewick to build the Vista Arts Center, an 800-seat performing and visual arts facility in the Vista Field redevelopment.

We have been asked repeatedly over the last several months if our project is similar to the Link proposal and whether we are in competition with each other. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Previously, the task force had been planning a full-size performing arts center of more than 2,000 seats. However, our research found that large, dedicated centers are expensive to build (up to $100 million) and to operate. We also found that in areas similar in size to the Tri-Cities, 90 percent of the entertainment needs can be met with an 800-seat theater, which, unfortunately, would not be suitable for Broadway shows.

The Link, however, is designed specifically for large touring shows and the few local events requiring a large theater. Importantly, the projected building and operating costs of the Link plus the Vista Arts Center are less than a full-size theater alone. Thus, these facilities are complementary, together providing most of the benefits of a full-size performing arts center while being both affordable to build and operate.

This story was originally published July 15, 2016 at 3:17 AM with the headline "Letter: Two projects, one arts and entertainment district."