NT: Historic Riviera Theatre marquee restoration project to begin with removal of marquee from theater

The Historic Riviera Theatre and Performing Arts Center will begin the planned historic marquee restoration project with the removal of the historic 1947 Marquee Monday, Oct. 28 (weather permitting). The removal should take two days. Temporary signage will be in place during the restoration project. The Riviera Theatre will be open during the restoration project, which is scheduled for completion in early 2014.

Under the direction of general contractor Peyton Barlow Co., the Wagner Electric Sign Company of Elyria, Ohio, will begin the formal restoration of the theater's marquee by removing it from the building and transporting it to its factory. Restoration work will be performed in a controlled environment. Reinstallation of the restored marquee is scheduled for early 2014. Frey Electric Co. is working on electrical infrastructure updates to the theater in preparation for the restored marquee. Architectural Resources has provided technical advice.

The historic 1947 marquee over the front entrance of the Riviera Theatre on Webster Street will be restored and improved, including restoring neon lights; chasing lights throughout the marquee in the original chasing pattern; metal restoration; painting; and new wiring and new electronics, including LED display panels that mimic the original lettering and background.

With the Historic Riviera Theatre as an anchor, the Webster Street Canal Corridor has seen a resurgence of economic development activity over the past several years, with many new restaurants and business opening. Restoration of the historic marquee will contribute to the positive activity in the canal corridor.

Financial support for this project provided by The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation; The Margaret L. Wendt Foundation; The Grigg-Lewis Foundation Inc.; and generous donations from the community.

The Historic Riviera Theatre and Performing Arts Center is located at 67 Webster St. For event listings please visit: www.RivieraTheatre.org or www.facebook.com/rivieratheatre.

(*There is no formal event for this, the formal relighting event will be scheduled for early 2014 after completion of restoration project).