Frequently Asked Questions
What is Trenton Arts in Focus?
How was Trenton Arts in Focus funded?
What is the Creek to Canal Creative District?
How will the Creek to Canal Creative District benefit Trenton?
How can I obtain a copy of the Trenton Arts in Focus Plan?
How can I get involved?
I have more questions! Who can I contact for additional information?
What is Trenton Arts in Focus?
Trenton Arts in Focus is a public dialogue and planning process that considers both the arts in Trenton citywide and the localized potential for arts-driven and arts-supporting redevelopment in Downtown. The planning process unfolded against a backdrop of positive change taking root, from citywide master planning that re-imagines Trenton as a regional hub of arts and culture; to the emergence of Greater Trenton, a new public-private partnership attracting regional resources to spur economic development; to catalytic arts and redevelopment activity.
A key outcome of the process was the recommendation to establish Trenton's first arts and culture district and a plan to make the district a reality.
The Trenton Arts in Focus plan, released in October 2016, reflects the input of more than 750 Trenton residents and stakeholders. It offers both place-based and citywide recommendations to shine a spotlight on Trenton's rich arts and culture scene and to develop the Creek to Canal Creative District.
How was Trenton Arts in Focus funded?
Trenton Arts in Focus was made possible by generous funding from the National Endowment for the Arts and New Jersey Manufacturers via the NJ NRTC program. Passage Theatre, Isles, and The College of New Jersey, with planning and urban design by Interface Studio, shepherded the process, which was enriched by the guidance of a nearly 50-member Steering Committee representing the arts, government, education, social services, and business.
What is the Creek to Canal Creative District?
The boundaries of the proposed Creative District are Route 1 to the east, Willow Street to the west, the D&R Canal to the north, and the Assunpink Creek to the south. This area encompasses the Old Trenton Neighborhood and much of Downtown, but also touches the State government center and many of Trenton's most well-known creative destinations. Trenton's two main commercial corridors, Broad and State Streets, intersect at the heart of the Creative District.
How will the Creek to Canal Creative Arts District benefit Trenton?
Arts-based, place-based, and community-driven investments in the Creek to Canal Creative District will be good for the city and the citywide arts scene, building the audience of arts supporters and fostering enhanced visibility and connections between venues. Investments in the District will be good for Downtown and nearby neighborhoods, good for artists, good for local businesses, and good for all who come to look and listen, stay and play, and explore the full range of Trenton's historic assets and newest amenities and works of art.
How can I obtain a copy of the Trenton Arts in Focus Plan?
Click here to view or download the entire Trenton Arts in Focus Arts Plan and Appendix. Limited physical copies of the plan are also available by request.
How can I get involved?
Submit this form and share how you would like to collaborate in the district!
I have more questions! Who can I contact for additional information?
Email us at: trentonartsinfocus@gmail.com or call Julia Taylor at Isles - (609) 341-4700.