Jacksonville Main Street Endorses Civic Center Plan

Jacksonville Main Street has officially endorsed the Jacksonville Center for the Arts’ bold plan to transform the historic Illinois Theater into a vibrant civic center and performing arts venue!

“The heart of our historic square is made for arts and entertainment,” says JMS President John Rohn — and we couldn’t agree more. Restoring this iconic building means more foot traffic, more jobs, more creativity, and more life downtown. 

JCA is working to raise $8.8 million to reimagine the Illinois Theater as a civic and performing arts center, with an extended purchase option through Feb. 16, 2026. Jacksonville Main Street is proud to support this effort every step of the way.
Let’s rally together and make this transformation happen!