The City of Myrtle Beach is making significant strides in its downtown revitalization efforts, highlighted by the construction of a new performing arts theater in the Arts and Innovation District.

Having broken ground on the project a year ago, the theater is part of a broader initiative to transform downtown Myrtle Beach into a vibrant area for both residents and tourists.

This revitalization includes a $22 million investment in the performing arts theater, which is projected to be completed by the summer of 2026.

The theater will feature 300 seats and will serve as a venue for performances by Coastal Carolina University students, as well as community events.

Senior Project Manager Christopher Edwards confirmed that the project is currently on budget and on schedule, with storefronts expected to be completed in the coming months.

In addition to the theater, the project will enhance Ninth Avenue North and the Broadway section near City Hall, with final improvements to Oak Street following.

Edwards noted that the design of the theater aims to preserve the aesthetic of the original buildings while updating them to modern standards.

Jason Greene, CEO of Myrtle Beach Downtown Alliance, expressed excitement about the project's advancements and the upcoming changes on Oak and Broadway streets.

Meredith Denari, the city's director of communications, pointed out a significant decrease in crime in the area, attributing it to the ongoing revitalization efforts.

The Downtown Alliance has actively engaged the community through public input meetings to ensure local residents have a voice in the revitalization process.

The overall goal of the project is to revitalize downtown Myrtle Beach, encouraging redevelopment of vacant land and enhancing the area's appeal and accessibility.

City officials are optimistic about the progress made, as the downtown revitalization project nears the completion of its current construction phase.