Capital Campaign Construction
Renovation Updates & Visitor Information
Join Us in Our Work!
NEW YORK MILLS, MN, July 22, 2026—The New York Mills Regional Cultural Center is excited to share a detailed update on our Capital Campaign as we move closer to an important milestone in our community’s history.
Construction Timeline and What Is Ahead
As you may have noticed, the start of our front facade restoration has shifted slightly due to an extended lead time for our custom windows. Construction is now scheduled to resume on July 27, 2026. This marks the beginning of the front facade renovation phase, which is expected to last approximately eight weeks, through September.
This work represents a major step forward in improving accessibility, safety, and the long-term sustainability of the Cultural Center. While construction is underway, the front entrance will be closed to the public. Visitors will need to use the back door entrance, which includes an accessible ramp for ease of access.
The Gallery and Gift Store will remain open throughout the entire construction period, and our regular programs and events will continue. We encourage you to keep visiting, supporting local artists, and staying connected with the Cultural Center during this time of transition.
Capital Campaign Progress
We are thrilled to announce that we have secured $1.73 million toward our $2.3 million goal, bringing us to 75% of our fundraising target!
This progress reflects the dedication, generosity, and belief of our supporters. Every act of support has played a role, including donations, volunteer time, advocacy, event participation, and community fundraising efforts. We are deeply grateful for the many ways you have helped move this project forward.
We're also excited to celebrate two recent grant awards that are helping advance this important work.
A $10,000 grant from Clean Energy Resource Teams (CERTs) supported our Capital Campaign Open House in April, educational materials highlighting the project's energy-efficiency improvements, and the creation of community murals that will be displayed on the temporary construction wall this summer. The grant will also help support a community celebration when Phase 1 is complete.
In addition, we have been awarded a $100,000 grant from the Frankenthaler Climate Initiative to support the replacement of our large front windows and doors with high-performance, energy-efficient Low-E windows. This investment allows us to choose the best long-term solution for our historic building—improving energy efficiency, protecting artwork from harmful UV exposure, and creating a more comfortable visitor experience—while preserving the character of our beloved 1885 façade for generations to come.
Together, these grants strengthen our campaign and move us even closer to completing Phase 1 of the renovation. We are grateful to both organizations for recognizing the importance of preserving this historic community landmark while investing in a more sustainable future.
Learn more about these grants: https://kulcher.org/news-release-grants-advance-windows-to-the-future-project-at-nymrcc/
Help Shape the Next Phase of the Project
This campaign is about more than construction. It is about creating a space that serves artists, visitors, students, and the broader community for generations to come. As we plan the next steps, we are asking for feedback on what matters most to you.
What programs, spaces, or experiences should we prioritize? How can the Cultural Center better serve the community in the years ahead?
We welcome your ideas and encourage you to complete our short survey:
Support the Capital Campaign
If you are considering making a gift, now is an especially meaningful time to contribute. Every donation, regardless of size, directly supports the transformation of the Cultural Center and helps ensure that this space continues to thrive as a hub for arts and culture.
You can also make a pledge to spread your support over time. Both one-time gifts and pledged commitments make a lasting difference.
Adopt-A-Window Program
Looking for more ways to contribute? Our Adopt-A-Window program continues to offer a unique way to be part of this renovation project. There are currently 7 of 11 upper windows still available for adoption.
Each window can be dedicated in memory of a loved one, in honor of someone special, or as a way to show support for the arts in our region. Each adoption includes permanent recognition through a dedication plaque, and directly supports our Capital Campaign renovation and expansion project. These dedications become part of the story of the building itself and will be a visible reminder of community investment in the Cultural Center’s future.
What to Expect During Construction
During construction, visitors may notice changes both outside and inside the building. A temporary wall will be installed in the front area to safely separate the construction zone from public spaces.
This temporary wall will also become an opportunity to showcase our Windows To the Future: Community Mural Project. This installation features artwork designed by community members and highlights the creativity, imagination, and voices of people across our region.
We invite you to stop in during construction, explore the mural display, and take a moment to enjoy this evolving creative space. It is a chance to see how the Cultural Center continues to grow and adapt while staying rooted in community expression.
Learn about Windows to the Future
Thank you for your continued support, patience, and enthusiasm as we move through this exciting season of transformation. Your involvement makes a lasting difference in the future of the Cultural Center and helps ensure this space remains vibrant, welcoming, and rooted in community for generations to come.
Questions about the Capital Campaign or Windows to the Future? Call 218-385-3339 or email betsy@kulcher.org or info@kulcher.org. Our team is happy to share more information with you in a phone call, email, virtual meeting, or in-person presentation. Thank you in advance for your interest in and support of the Cultural Center -- it takes all of us to keep this dream alive and the good vibes flowing!
