Governor Quinn Announces Investment to Restore Historic Rialto Theatre

JOLIET - Governor Pat Quinn today announced a $2.2 million capital investment to renovate and restore the historic Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet. The 87-year-old theatre, dubbed the “jewel of Joliet,” generates more than $7.5 million annually in local economic activity hosting concerts, corporate events and traveling editions of Broadway shows.

“The Rialto plays an important cultural and economic role in Joliet and the surrounding area,” Governor Quinn said. “This investment will help ensure that it remains a cherished part of life for Will County residents and continues to create jobs and drive the local economy forward for generations to come.”

The investment is part of Governor Quinn’s Illinois Jobs Now! capital program. The investment will support work at the theater at 102-104 N. Chicago St. and at a six-story office building at 116 N. Chicago St. Rental income from the office building supports the operations of the non-profit theatre.

The renovations will include repair and replacement of the theater’s decorative terra cotta façade and improvements to interior common areas. The work will include the plumbing, electrical and heating and cooling systems.

The Will County Metropolitan Exposition and Auditorium Authority owns and operates the properties. James V. Smith, chairman of the authority, said the rehabilitation will build on other work carried out under a $5.5 million capital improvements campaign started in 2006.

“Our organization is committed to ensuring this treasure remains a vital asset for decades to come,” Chairman Smith said. “We wish to thank Governor Pat Quinn along with local legislators, State Senator Pat McGuire and State Representative Larry Walsh, Jr., Joliet Mayor Tom Giarrante and the Joliet City Council for working to make this grant possible.”