The historic New Granada Theater, one of the most celebrated landmarks in Black Pittsburgh's cultural history, is taking another major step toward reopening after receiving a $1 million investment through Pennsylvania's Main Street Matters program.
Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis joined community leaders in the Hill District to celebrate the completion of the project's first phase while announcing the beginning of phase two — bringing the long-awaited transformation of the iconic Centre Avenue landmark closer to reality.
The funding comes through the Shapiro-Davis Administration's Main Street Matters initiative, a statewide program created to help communities revitalize commercial corridors, restore historic properties, and strengthen local economies.
“The Shapiro-Davis Administration is committed to making investments that strengthen communities and support economic growth across Pennsylvania. The New Granada Theater is a cultural icon in the Hill District, and this investment is helping bring new life to the community.”
A Historic Landmark Returns
Built in the 1920s, the New Granada Theater once stood at the center of the Hill District's vibrant entertainment scene, hosting legendary musicians, performers, and community gatherings during an era when the neighborhood was nationally recognized as a center of Black culture and commerce.
Today, the redevelopment represents more than restoring a historic building — it is part of a broader effort to preserve Black history while creating new opportunities for economic growth, entrepreneurship, education, and the arts.
Marimba Milliones, President and CEO of the Hill Community Development Corporation, said the state's investment demonstrates confidence in both the project and the neighborhood's future.
“We believe investing in the New Granada and the Hill District's business corridor signals that Pennsylvania is invested in the Great Return of the Hill. Support at this level allows us to continue transforming one of the community's most important historic assets.”
Phase One Complete
The first phase of construction has already delivered significant improvements. The building's third floor is now home to the University of Pittsburgh's Community Engagement Center, including:
- The Center for African American Poetry and Poetics
- Jazz Studies programming
- STEAM education and community programming
Additional work completed during Phase One includes restoration of the theater's historic façade and Art Deco marquee, upgraded life-safety systems, streetscape improvements, sidewalks, and new landscaping.
What's Coming Next
The newly announced second phase will transform the first floor into a destination for residents, visitors, artists, and entrepreneurs. Plans include:
- A café and lounge
- Commercial kitchen
- Black Box Theater performance space
- New public restrooms and grand staircases
- A restored main entrance and second elevator
- Additional retail and commercial tenant space
The redevelopment is expected to create new opportunities for local businesses, arts organizations, cultural programming, and neighborhood investment along Centre Avenue.
Building Economic Opportunity
Pittsburgh Mayor Corey O'Connor said the redevelopment represents an investment in both the Hill District's history and its future.
“For generations, the New Granada Theater was a cornerstone of art, culture and community in the Hill District. Projects like this strengthen neighborhoods, fuel economic growth, and create opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs.”
The New Granada project also reflects a broader effort by state and local leaders to invest in historically underserved communities while preserving landmarks that tell the story of Black Pittsburgh.
Main Street Matters
The Main Street Matters program was established by Governor Josh Shapiro in 2024 to support downtown revitalization projects across Pennsylvania. According to state officials, the latest round of funding attracted more than 220 applications requesting over $68 million, highlighting strong demand for investments in local business districts and neighborhood redevelopment.
Since taking office, the Shapiro-Davis Administration has secured $40 million for the initiative and has proposed an additional $20 million in the 2026–27 state budget.
For the Hill District, the continued restoration of the New Granada Theater represents more than bricks and mortar. It is the revival of a landmark that has long symbolized Black excellence, artistic achievement, and community pride — and one that is poised to once again become a centerpiece of culture, commerce, and opportunity in Pittsburgh.