Sen. Landis Spearheads Revitalization with Cole Center Zanesville Project

ZANESVILLE, OH – State Sen. Al Landis, appointed as Chairman of the Senate’s Community Revitalization Committee in December of 2023, spent time in Zanesville learning more about a proposed revitalization project.

The Cole Center Zanesville plans on transforming the historic 27,000 square foot building, formerly known as Montgomery Ward, into a vibrant non-profit museum and event venue.

Landis and State Representative Adam Holmes met with Ron and Erin Cole from the Cole Center Zanesville to discuss state funding opportunities as the project progresses into 2024.

“There’s been a little bit of urban decay. People have migrated from the cities and Zanesville is a really good example of a city that is growing. This city is on fire. It’s absolutely just a great place to be in this period of time. I think we’re still in recovery from COVID and we’ve got to draw people back out,” Ohio Senator Al Landis said.

The center plans to feature immersive full-scale dioramas showcasing history, art, design, engineering, and more. It also aims to provide STEM educational opportunities for youth and serve as a hub for visual and performance arts, theatre groups, and veteran’s reunions.

“There will be an extension of this model over at Cole Center Zanesville in addition to all the programs that we’ll be introducing and unveiling there. It’ll be all in one wonderful place,” President of Cole Center Zanesville, Ron Cole said.

This project has potential to boost Zanesville’s tourism and fill the gap in the arts left by the Masonic Temple building’s demise.