Boulder’s Arts Community Secures State Support
Boulder’s arts scene recently received a significant boost from the state, amounting to $2.35 million. However, local arts leaders are expected to go the extra mile before the funds actually come through.
On Wednesday, Governor Jared Polis and Colorado Creative Industries (CCI) revealed the recipients of this funding. The Regional Revitalization Tax Credit (CRTC) is set to allocate $50 million in available tax credits to bolster the state’s creative industries, as mentioned in an official announcement.
Among the 12 recipients are the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art and the Colorado Chautauqua Society, which will receive $1.5 million for its planned North Boulder Museum and $850,000 for the preservation and winterization of Chautauqua’s historic auditorium, built in 1898.
This tax credit initiative, introduced by the Colorado Legislature in 2024, aims to support construction and renovations in the creative sector. Projects can qualify for a credit of up to 25% of their approved costs, capped at $3 million.
But there’s a catch—unlike traditional grants, the funding isn’t given upfront. BMoCA and Chautauqua must first complete the eligible work and provide documentation of expenses to access state benefits. As tax-exempt nonprofits, they can claim a refund equal to 90% of any unused credits against their state income taxes.
This delayed funding structure sheds light on why Colorado prefers applicants who have solid plans in place and have secured other funding sources first.
Gov. Polis explained that his administration examined factors like project readiness, community backing, and the overall public interest in each proposal. They also looked at whether applicants had lined up other financial contributors.
With limited state resources and a high number of deserving applications, officials must focus on initiatives that are “realistic and can be implemented immediately,” according to Polis.
He also mentioned that part of the tax credit’s conditions includes ongoing evaluations to ensure that the spaces funded are utilized for cultural, entertainment, and educational purposes.
For BMoCA, this state backing is pivotal for overcoming the limitations of their current downtown location, which is a historic building ill-suited for the demanding nature of contemporary art.
David Dudon, BMoCA’s Executive Director and Chief Curator, shared that the new 17,900-square-foot museum will feature five galleries, including a recently added space for new media art. This is an expansion from the previously announced four galleries.
The new building is also set to include two classrooms, event spaces, a café, a shop, and offices.
“This award means more than just financial support,” Dudon noted. “It signifies the state’s commitment to this transformative project, which is vital not just for Boulder but for the broader arts community.”
In contrast, the Colorado Chautauqua Society faces a different architectural challenge. Instead of constructing a new building, they will upgrade their 128-year-old auditorium with modern structural and safety features while retaining its beloved open-air ambiance.
The $850,000 tax credit will fund renovations such as reinforcing historic columns, improving accessibility, and installing geothermal heating systems. This solution allows for seasonal insulation without permanently altering the auditorium’s outdoor character.
Chautauqua plans to operate year-round starting in 2027 and even host the Sundance Film Festival, marking a shift from its longtime home in Park City, Utah.
Sherry Benford, CEO of the Colorado Chautauqua Association, emphasized the importance of the project, saying it would ensure the auditorium remains a cultural cornerstone for future generations.
This renovation project aims to increase programming opportunities to over 200 days yearly, encompassing performances, lectures, and educational events.
Polis highlighted the auditorium’s potential for diverse community uses throughout the year, beyond just summer events.
Even after construction wraps up, state oversight will persist. Both BMoCA and Chautauqua must continue to meet the criteria for creative industry projects for a 15-year compliance period, with the state retaining the right to recover credits if the facilities stop operating in alignment with established guidelines.
Beginning next year, the Colorado Department of Economic Development and International Trade will be tasked with issuing an annual report detailing completed projects, their uses, and credits collected by the state.
While project-level reporting on aspects like attendance and local artist compensation isn’t mandated, Polis did indicate that factors like classrooms and learning opportunities at BMoCA would be considered in evaluating whether the projects enhance access and strengthen the creative economy.
Funding from loans will help bridge financial gaps, but both BMoCA and Chautauqua face significant hurdles ahead. They must complete construction, accurately document costs, and maintain their facilities’ approved use for 15 years to access the credits.
