Plaza Theater Restoration Update: Funding Secured, On-Track for December 1 Opening

The historic Plaza Theater in downtown Palm Springs has been undergoing an extensive restoration for just over a year now, with work beginning in March of last year. Initially budgeted at $34 million, the project has seen its scope expand as additional upgrades were deemed necessary to meet health, safety, and building code requirements. One of the significant adjustments included the installation of enhanced fire suppression equipment—a need that grew as fire authorities mandated further upgrades once restoration work got underway.

The additional work, which encompassed necessary enhancements for entrances and exits, extended contracts for both the architect and the project management firm, and equipment substitutions, now accounts for nearly half of the total funding required to complete the project. While the initial contingency was set at 12%, project insiders have admitted that a 20% contingency would have been more realistic given the ambitious scope.

To address these extra costs, the contractor required an additional $2.8 million, which was approved last week and will be sourced from the city’s deferred maintenance internal service fund. "Right now is the time to take an opportunity and consider making those upgrades while we're in the building, the contractors are there, and that will make operations more effective," said Palm Springs Assistant City Manager Teresa Gallivan.

In tandem with these funding measures, the Plaza Theater Foundation is set to raise an additional $800,000. The restoration team remains optimistic about the project timeline, with the grand reopening scheduled for December 1. Programming is already set for December and extends well into 2026, ensuring a vibrant future for this cherished community landmark.

Tiani Jadling, NBC Palm Springs, brings us the latest on this dynamic restoration effort, which continues to breathe new life into a cornerstone of downtown Palm Springs.