Buildings to be razed for new arts center

MERIDIAN — Officials in Meridian are getting closer to approving demolition of two old buildings at the site of a planned arts and entertainment center.

WTOK reports that the board of the Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Center is to meet the first week in September and is expected to approve demolition of the old Hotel Meridian and a structure known as the Montana’s building.

The board announced last summer that it was acquiring the buildings.

Design of the center is still in the planning stage. So far, $4 million in state funding has been secured. Private and corporate donations, along with other state and federal funding are being sought for the project, estimated to cost between $15 million and $18 million.