Middletown Arts Center wins design award

MIDDLETOWN - The Middletown Arts Center was recently recognized by the New Jersey Recreation and Park Association with an award for excellence in design.

"We're proud that New Jersey Recreation and Park Association shares our opinion that the Middletown Arts Center is a unique, versatile and accessible facility worthy of recognition," said Mayor Gerard P. Scharfenberger. "This award belongs to Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs Department, the Middletown Arts Council and the many dedicated volunteers and professionals who worked so hard to see that a former commercial space was converted into the beautiful yet practical facility the community enjoys today."

Located at 36 Church St., the arts center is a flexible recreation space suitable for a wide range of artistic and cultural activities. The building includes many unique features including an accessible grand entry converted from a truck loading ramp and a flex arts space complete with a retractable stage and seating. The 23,000-square-foot facility also includes handicap-accessible dressing rooms, an exhibit hall, formal art gallery, classrooms, an art studio, a music practice room, dance studio, and a media lab.

The award is the second the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs Department has received for the art center's design. Through a lease agreement with the township, the arts center is operated by the nonprofit Middletown Township Cultural and Arts Council. A full schedule of the classes, special events and community programs is offered each season.