The Howell Opera House, built in 1881 and unused since 1924, is slated for restoration and repurposing as a public community space.

Major restoration challenges include the absence of central heating and a fire suppression system, and full completion may be gradual due to ongoing needs.

Dana Wnuk, recently named executive director of the Livingston Arts Council, leads the project which owns the opera house.

The restoration of the historic Howell Opera House aims to revive it as a cultural hub while preserving its architectural heritage, updating safety and usability to modern standards.

The project is backed by a state grant and private investors, with an initial renovation budget of 2.5 million dollars.

The goal is to create a self-sustaining community venue that can host diverse programming and benefit the surrounding neighborhood, even as improvements continue over time.