MILTON, Del. - A community fundraising effort has raised $150,000 to secure the Quayside property next to the Milton Theatre, preserving a space long used for concerts and local events.
The theatre had leased the property for years and planned to purchase it eventually, but the opportunity came sooner than expected when the owner offered the land at a significantly reduced price. Though discounted from its roughly $400,000 market value, theatre leaders said they had only about a month to raise the necessary $150,000.
The space has become a hub for free concerts and popular festivals, drawing visitors from outside the area and supporting local businesses.
“The theater in general … is a big driver for the businesses here in town and draws folks from quite a distance,” said Perry Higgs, who lives in Milton. “It wasn’t a hard decision for us to pitch in and do our part.”
Development Director Jacey Brittingham said the successful campaign reflects strong community support.
“We are just overjoyed. We feel incredibly grateful for everything that the community has done for us,” Brittingham said.
She added that the funds raised not only secured the property but will allow for improvements while keeping it accessible.
“We always wanted to keep this space a free space for the community to come to,” Brittingham said. “So that just gives us the opportunity to be able to upgrade it a little bit more … and make it a more beautiful spot for the community to enjoy.”
Local sellers say the theatre’s impact extends beyond its performances.
“They can stop in the little shops and have a bite to eat, dinner and browse around … which is really great,” said Margie Pease, a vendor at The Mercantile in downtown.
“It’s a win-win for all of us,” she added.
The property settlement was completed Wednesday. Theatre officials say they plan to host a community celebration in the future to thank the community, with details to be announced.