This ‘Crown Jewel’ Theater Of Millburn Is Getting A $25M Upgrade

MILLBURN, NJ — A theater nonprofit in Millburn has scored a windfall of state tax credits that will help it carry out sweeping renovations.

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) recently announced that the Paper Mill Playhouse was approved for up to $24.8 million in credits under its Cultural Arts Facilities Expansion (CAFE) Program.

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According to the NJEDA, the Paper Mill Playhouse is a "statewide cultural asset" that runs a variety of programs for underserved schools and people with disabilities, as well as comprehensive accessibility programming and discounted/reduced cost access for its patrons.

Here's what is being planned at the Paper Mill, state officials said:

"The Front of House project will reconfigure and expand the entrance and lobby area of Paper Mill Playhouse in Millburn. The project will address longstanding deficiencies in accessibility, circulation, and building systems, and will also replace outdated and undersized restrooms with modern, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant facilities, upgrade the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, and will redesign main entrances and interior walkways to eliminate accessibility barriers. The new two-story lobby will feature box office, concessions and merchandising areas, monumental stairs and elevators, bathrooms, and an enlarged donor lounge."

Mike Stotts, executive director of Paper Mill Playhouse, said the upgrades will improve the theatergoing experience for generations to come.

"Greater accessibility and a more thoughtful layout of our public spaces are the driving forces of this project, not to mention the upgrades to mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems that are severely outdated and inefficient," Stotts said.

The CAFE program aims to increase cultural arts activities, attract visitors, boost engagement with the arts in underserved communities, and revitalize downtowns by providing tax credits to build or renovate facilities, including aquariums, historical societies, libraries, galleries, and museums. Eligible awardees can receive tax credits covering up to 100 percent of eligible project costs – up to $75 million.

Millburn Mayor Frank Saccomandi said the Paper Mill Playhouse is a "crown jewel" of the township.

"We're incredibly lucky to have a theater of this caliber right here in Millburn, and we are thrilled to see the state stepping up to support its future," Saccomandi said.

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