Assemblyman Daniel J. Burling has announced $433,477 in state funding for the revitalization of the New Family Theater in Mount Morris. The funding was awarded as part of the Restore NY community initiative. Burling called the funding a key element in historic preservation and economic development.

“By securing over $400,000 for the New Family Theater, we have ensured that the citizens of Mount Morris and surrounding areas do not lose an irreplaceable historic gem,” said Burling. “For decades, the theater stood as one of the community’s cultural focal points. Unfortunately, it fell into a state of disrepair over the past 25 years. Revitalization funding will return the structure to its rightful place – as a refurbished, downtown commercial hub.”

The New Family Theater, an Art Deco movie theater, was built in 1932. Closed since 1980, the theater was purchased in 1984 by the Village of Mount Morris. Funding will be used to demolish decaying sections of the structure, including the rear auditorium. The 1,500 square foot original front building and Main Street façade will be renovated. The building restoration, and subsequent sale to a private commercial developer, is part of the recently-completed Downtown Strategic Plan.

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