The Madison Theater Block is back in the news.

The Madison Theater Block is back in the news.Can anyone transcribe this Journal Star article? "Proposal adds another layer to redevelopment plan for Downtown Peoria." Is there anything more to it than wanting to buy the adjacent parking lot from the city? What caught my attention was this discussion in the Facebook comments section (I removed the names, although I don't know why)well there goes the madison theater ever opening back up….
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they were never going to open it. They conned a few of us to helping with that fundraiser full on knowing it wasn't for the theater
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yea i went to that fundraiser in hopes that it had a future it's sad
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The theater (auditorium) is not part of this project. It's mothballed at the moment. It could still be developed in the future.
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I'm sorry to hear you say that. I'm still involved with the Madison and was very grateful for your help. The Madison Preservation Association had and has every intention of continuing our mission to preserve the theater. We've run into some unforeseen issues and will be working to find a way to make this happen. I am hopeful that the new development around the theater, which will be helped with the acquisition of this parking lot, will be a stimulus to the theater project.
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this save the Madison project has been going on for 20 years. If it was really something that was going to get done it would've happened by now. According to WMBD31, this is what is planned, as they're officially submitting their redevelopment proposal.* Expanding Hoops by knocking out a wall that separates it from its neighbor, where establishments such as the Judge's Chamber and the Neon Bison once held court.
* Creating an American food-style restaurant where the Gin Joint and Adam's Apple once were. He hopes to make that a family-friendly place with the standard American fare, such as burgers.
* An upscale eatery on the corner where SOP's and Rumburgers once were. There might be a coffee shop/deli as well. The focus here would be on a higher-end clientele, with a dedicated "coffee bar, small self-pour tap wall, independent wine stations, and unique dining options.
* A 24-room boutique inn that would stretch the entire block. Rooms would be "unique" and offer guests a fun place to stay. There would also be a rooftop dog park.The hotel is news to me. In any event, "According to the redevelopment agreement, Hoops should be finished with its planned expansion in a few months. City officials said the other restaurants should be opening by late this year or early next year. The hotel, they said, is slated to begin leasing next summer."It's all pretty exciting, and hopefully the Madison doesn't get left behind.