The Rumor is true
The Birchmere is coming to Silver Spring
The rumor about the Alexandria-based Birchmere Music Hall opening up a
second concert venue in Silver Spring was declared a reality on August
30 th by outgoing Montgomery County Executive Doug Duncan, who wants to
put a finishing touch on a revitalization program that helped define his
administration.
The plan is for the Birchmere's popular and eclectic medley of folk and
country bands to play at the old J.C. Penney building on Colesville Road. The
interior of the store will be extensively renovated, but the façade
will be preserved as a historic landmark.
Duncan said the County has pledged $4 million toward purchase of the land
and building and other costs. Duncan is also requesting a $4 million
matching grant from the state. "We are extremely excited," said Duncan,
who has successfully brought arts and entertainment to Silver Spring along
with rows of franchised retail stores.
The owners of the Birchmere will be required to put up a substantial investment
toward construction and will then pay for a monthly lease from the County.
No timetable has been set. The first order of business will be for Duncan
to get approval from the County Council as part of a supplemental budget
in their lameduck session this fall.
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