The Edison Cultural Art Center aims for end of 2024, beginning of 2025 completion

The center’s first elements will open in September, beginning with the transitions of the Edison Art Foundation’s after-school program to the new after-school youth center space, and releasing the leased spaces to food and business tenants, Carter said.

The background

The Edison Cultural Art Center project began in 2017 with the Edison Arts Foundation’s purchase of 12.5 acres at 7100 W. Fuqua St., Houston, with the goal to revitalize the vacant shopping center, Carter said.

Phase 1 broke ground in 2019 for construction of the Edison Lofts, bringing a 126-unit affordable multifamily housing complex that was completed in fall 2021.

About the program

The Edison Arts Foundation nonprofit was established in 2013 by Carter to develop cultural and performing arts programs for children and adults throughout the community, according to the website.

Offering a number of programs for all ages, the foundation offers programs, including:

• ANDance Jr. Company
• Afterschool Arts Academy
• Summer Theatre Arts Repertory
• Career Readiness & Education Works Program

Keep in mind

The organization has raised over $23 million for the center but still needs about $8 million to reach the $31 million goal, which has gone up due to construction issues and inflation, Carter said.

“We’re always fundraising even though we have our capital campaign because we still have to maintain our current programming and plan for our future programming,” Carter said.

There are still sponsorship opportunities for the space, including pavers, theater seats and spaces within the center, she said. The foundation is also hosting its fifth annual Tutus & Tuxes Fundraising Gala on April 27, which will help to fund the organization’s expansion and programs.