Opening of Avondale Estates’ The Art Lot, originally scheduled for Sept. 1, and then for Sept. 24, has been delayed again. Project Manager Jen Singh said Thursday she’s shooting for a soft opening Oct. 7 and a grand opening on Oct. 15.
The initial delay was because the lot needed site drawings and a building permit, which it received in early September. The most recent delay came when a city inspector pronounced the back area “too uneven” with a potential to cause injury to performers.
Singh is hoping new concrete can get poured and smoothed this weekend at the latest.
Additionally the Lot needs a certificate of occupancy.
The temporary pop-up park, on North Avondale Road property once occupied by the Avondale Pizza Café, was approved 4-1 by commissioners last June. Mayor Pro Tem Terry Giager was the lone dissenting vote.
Through a temporary intergovernmental agreement The Art Lot receives $6,000 from the city and $12,000 from the city’s Downtown Development Authority. Mayor Jonathan Elmore has said any additional project funds must be raised by the Avondale Arts Alliance either through donations or grants.
Singh said that as of now the project is “way under budget.” She hopes to eventually feature original art, painting, 3D projections, film/video, dancers and other performing artists.
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