The organization that is renovating the iconic Melba Theatre in downtown Houston is seeking financial help to restore the neon and marquee on the front of the Grand Avenue building.
Downtown Houston Inc. says the low bid among three firms making proposals is about $11,000. The organization is ready to authorize the work, but first must raise some money.
Bids were earlier reviewed for sound, lighting and curtains. Gentry Construction Co. of Houston is the general contractor for the project, which includes a complete renovation of the building, which was built in 1938. It has been idle since the early 1980s. Downtown Houston Inc. raised the funds for the work through the Missouri Neighborhood Assistance Program, which gives generous tax breaks to donors.
Those donating to the neon project are eligible for a federal tax-deduction.
The marquee will once again be lit and neon installed on the front of the building with the name of the theatre spelled out. Lighting also will be placed on the ceiling of the entrance near a ticket booth.
Persons wanting to help with the project can send a check to: Downtown Houston Inc., P.O. Box 170, Houston, Mo. 65483. Checks also can be dropped off at Family Dentistry, Houston Herald and the law offices of Brad Eidson or Bill Gladden.
Construction work on the Melba is slated to be completed by summer.
Persons wanting to help with the project can send a check to: Downtown Houston Inc., P.O. Box 170, Houston, Mo. 65483. Checks also can be dropped off at Family Dentistry, Houston Herald and the law offices of Brad Eidson or Bill Gladden.