ROCKY MOUNT, Va. - Rocky Mount's future performance center at the former Lynch Hardware Building will begin to take shape Wednesday, April 25, with public input sessions for the public and musicians.

No formal presentations are scheduled and no appointments are needed. Drop in at the former Lynch Hardware Building at 450 Franklin Street anytime between 4 and 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 25, to discuss what you believe should be included in terms of seating, amenities, sound, light, stage, restrooms, ticketing, interior finishes, exterior appearance, operations, musician accommodations and other uses.

These public input sessions with the project architect, Hill Studio of Roanoke, will be used over the coming weeks to develop the design concepts necessary for construction to proceed. Town Council will approve the final concept before giving notice to proceed with financing and construction.

The venue's construction will be financed largely through the sale of historic property tax credits and through private foundation grants in an effort to minimize taxpayer investment. The venue is expected to make a significant contribution to the economy of Rocky Mount, attracting new regional customers for restaurants, hotels, boutiques and retailers, creating additional jobs.

When it opens, the new performance center will be the signature venue at the eastern gateway of Virginia's Crooked Road Heritage Music Trail, which has generated nearly $30 million in tourism revenue throughout its lifetime for 19 counties and cities in Southwest Virginia.