An artist’s rendering of the proposed National Comedy Center in downtown Jamestown.
JAMESTOWN – The National Comedy Center (NCC) in Jamestown is receiving funding from the federal government to help ensure the project moves forward and is completed next year.
On Wednesday afternoon Congressman Tom Reed (R-Corning, NY 23) announced the NCC will receive a $1.7 million federal grant to help fund new initiatives at the site. The funding comes out of the Public Works Program at the U.S. Department of Commerce.
The award will be used to fund new attractions and the related construction of the NCC, which will be located on 2nd Street just to the west of Washington Street.
“We are thrilled that the U.S Department of Commerce has awarded the National Comedy Center a $1.7 million grant through its Economic Development Administration program,” said NCC board president Tom Benson. “Through this award, the Federal government has sent a clear signal that it recognizes and endorses the National Comedy Center as a world class attraction and the massive catalytic economic impact that it will have on Jamestown and the entire region. We want to especially thank Congressman Reed and his entire staff for spearheading the NCC application on our behalf. We also want to express our sincere appreciation to Tom Barnes of Southern Tier West for all of his tireless efforts in helping us along the way.”
Rep. Tom Reed (R-Corning)
Congressman Reed called the funding a great step in the right direction, which will allow the project to continue to move forward.
“We care about creating jobs for the hardworking men and women of our region and investing in this site will do just that,” said Reed. “It’s only right that we continue to work with local leaders and continue to advocate for the resources that this site needs to be completed.”
The NCC is a non-profit entity that plays host to the annual Lucille Ball Comedy Festival, attracting comedic acts nationwide. The facility is tentatively set to be completed in the second half of 2017.
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