DFAC's $2.7 Million Expansion Set for August

Dunedin Fine Art Center is readying for a major, $2.7-million expansion that adds a new gallery and four multi-purpose rooms.

The August groundbreaking marks the third of four phases in the Dunedin Fine Art Center's expansion plan for the Michigan Avenue campus.  

Construction is tentatively slated for completion in summer 2014.

The project's third phase is the result of a state grant award that required a $500,000 contribution from the City of Dunedin. City leaders awarded the $500,000 as part of an $800,000 "quality of life" package in February, with the remainder going to the Dunedin Historical Museum and future renovation of the Blatchley House at Weaver Park.

The deal ultimately led to a 20-year lease extension from the city, also, which city leaders allowed in June because state grant award and bank loan conditions require the Art Center remain open for a minimum number of years after its completion. 

This expansion project, designed by Collman and Karsky Architects of Tampa, will renovate 3,686 square feet and add 7,306 more, according to a July 3 news release from the organization. The new space will house the gift shop, cafe, a gallery and four studio-classrooms.

J. Kokolakis Contracting of Tarpon Springs is the construction company.

Dunedin Fine Art Center issued the following statements about the project in the news release:

“This will mean so much for the adult students in the Gladys Douglas School for the Arts, and all of our visitors,” Catherine Bergmann, DFAC’s adult education director, said. 

“I think this speaks strongly to the important role DFAC plays in the community. And also to the faith that the community places in the future of the organization,” Charles Klein, president of DFAC’s board of directors, said.