There is a critical need in our County for a facility, accessible to all, to nurture art, artists and the community in the disciplines of music, dance, theater, and the visual and literary arts. Harford County does not have a purpose-built cultural space and local arts organizations must travel to neighboring sites in Pennsylvania and Cecil County to secure available and affordable performance space. The future Center for the Arts, along with the wonderful libraries, parks and recreation fields and facilities, and the community centers will serve all of the people of the county. The ability of the Center for the Arts to affect the lives of all citizens is limited only by our imagination and energy.

Research proves that there are “critical links” between learning in the arts and improved academic skills, social skills and motivation. Students studying the arts perform 30% better than their peers, are more likely to succeed, score well above their peers in standardized tests, and become leaders. This is particularly applicable to young children, economically disadvantaged/ at-risk youth, and remedial students. Many have not discovered their creative potential or had the benefit of professional training to develop their talents. Nor have they experienced the joys of collaboration, disciplined practice, striving for excellence, and reaching goals - values not reserved only for athletes.

The Maryland Arts Industry generated $1.05 billion in economic impact for Maryland’s economy in FY 06. Nonprofit, arts and culture attendees spent an average of $27.79 per person, per event, not including the price of admission, on meals, child care, transportation, lodging and gifts/souvenirs. The arts industry generated an estimated $37.3 million in state and local taxes and 13,762 full-time equivalent jobs. Government funding for the arts generates a 7:1 return on investment. (Economic Impact of the Arts in Maryland: 2006 Update, Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development, 2007)

Projections are that BRAC will bring new jobs - over 20,000 - to Harford County, with a median salary of $87,000, and expectations from our new neighbors that the arts will be an integral part of the quality of life their families will enjoy. Supporting the arts in Harford County makes good economic and educational sense.