WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) on Friday announced that Oil City will be receiving $500,000 in federal funding to rehabilitate its historic Lyric Theatre, which will create an anchor for arts in the city and help revitalize the local economy.

The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) is providing $500,000.00 of the $1,191,138.00 project, which will be matched by $691,138.00 from state and local governments. Senator Casey advocated for the ARC funding in a letter of support earlier this year.

“The historic Lyric Theatre has been keeping arts and culture alive in Oil City since 1906. I was proud to advocate for this funding to begin an ambitious rehabilitation project that will enable the theatre to host more productions and community events, bringing neighbors together and stimulating the economy,” said Senator Casey.

The Appalachian Regional Commission funding will support the renovation of 11,783 square feet—including a new auditorium—and ensure that new construction is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), guaranteeing accessibility throughout the theatre.

Senator Casey helped secure $3.2 million for the historic Oil City National Bank building’s rehabilitation from the Economic Development Administration and $400,000 in community project funding. See other investments in Venango County here.