Simsbury Voters Make Decision On Supplemental Cash For Band Shell Project

SIMSBURY, CT — While all of Connecticut embarked on snowstorm preparations Saturday, Jan. 24, Simsbury voters also had some work to do.

And the result was very good news for the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center.

During a rare Saturday referendum, voters easily said "yes" to a $388,000 supplemental appropriation to fund the nonprofit concert venue's ongoing renovation/addition at the 22 Iron Horse Blvd. site.

The cash will take care of the cost overruns associated with the project.

The final vote tally was 510 "yes" votes to 292 "no," with voter turnout a scant 4.3 percent.

This is the second time voters approved funding for the popular concert venue.

When voters approved funding for the project the first time around — in May 2024 during the budget process — the work was estimated to cost a total of $2.78 million, with Simsbury's share about $500,000, with the rest coming from state grants and donations.

In recent months, however, costs to add to the venue have jumped to $3.17 million, requiring the special appropriation to do what was planned.

The additions, called the "Next Act Expansion Project," are designed to add amenities and improve infrastructure.

It is hoped the expansion will further make Simbury Meadows a cultural and economic player for the region.

Highlights of the project include: green rooms for visiting artists, multiple-purpose rooms, and office space for staff. Simsbury Meadows.

The venue draws more than 40,000 attendees annually and is one of the largest outdoorperforming arts venues in Connecticut.

Fueling the cost overruns are higher-than-expected costs to install fire sprinklers, soil conditions not being suitable for the project, and issues with utility installation, according to a presentation made to the town recently.

The supplemental cash will take care of the soil situation, relocate electrical and communications lines, install fire sprinklers, and add security cameras, among other items.

From Jan. 20: 'Referendum Is This Weekend To OK Added Cash For Simsbury Meadows Project'