Heyde Center for the Arts Successfully Raises Funds for New Parking Lot

Heyde Center for the Arts Successfully Raises Funds for New Parking Lot

Chippewa Falls, WI – The Heyde Center for the Arts, managed by The Chippewa Valley Cultural Center Inc., is thrilled to announce that it has reached a significant milestone in its fundraising efforts. The campaign, launched on November 15, 2023, aimed to raise sufficient funds to create additional accessible parking spaces for the center.

Campaign co-chairs, Ben Smasal and Mary Lynn Toycen, were adamant that the project had to be fully funded before breaking ground.

     “It is the policy of the Chippewa Valley Cultural Association (aka Heyde Center for the Arts) to always make sure that we have sufficient funds to fully complete a capital development project before starting it, unless it is an unforeseen emergency repair” noted the Vice President of the Board of Directors, Ben Smasal.

The new parking lot, to be located on the north side of the center, will provide 27 additional spaces, effectively doubling the existing parking capacity. This expansion will address some of the current limitations caused by inadequate off-street parking. Limited safe and more accessible parking has been a complaint of people coming to attend performances, exhibits, business meetings, conferences, and other special occasions. Additionally, the center will now be able to better accommodate school buses, assisted living vans, and bus tour motorcoaches seeking to drop off participants at the elevator entrance.

     "This will not completely solve our parking limitations, but it is a great start!" commented Deb Johnson, Heyde Center Executive Director.

Construction is scheduled to begin this summer, with completion expected by October 15, 2024. The Heyde Center extends its gratitude to all donors who have contributed to this vital project.

The mission of the Heyde Center for the Arts is to be a catalyst for artistic expression and education, enriching the Chippewa Valley and beyond. Located at 3 S. High St., Chippewa Falls, WI, the center hosts a variety of arts and cultural events and activities.