Governor Hochul Announces Opening of Lincoln Center’s $550 Million David Geffen Hall

Governor Kathy Hochul today joined the leadership of Lincoln Center and the New York Philharmonic in announcing the opening of the new $550 million David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. The re-invent the home of the world-renowned New York Philharmonic opened two years ahead of schedule with expanded access to public space for the community. The project transformed David Geffen Hall into an illustrious venue that will further enrich New York as a vibrant destination for culture and the arts.

“The transformation of David Geffen Hall is a perfect addition to one of New York’s premier live music venues in iconic Lincoln Center,” Governor Hochul said. “Through our well-orchestrated partnership, this project will boost New York’s cultural and economic life with additional jobs, a vibrant community space and a new and improved concert hall two years ahead of schedule. Our arts institutions play a pivotal role in as economic engines, community centers and cultural anchors, and I’m excited for all the music New Yorkers will experience and enjoy in this beautiful new home.”

Empire State Development provided $6.5 million to support the transformation of David Geffen Hall, including the renovation and expansion of approximately 21,000 square feet of public space in and around the hall, which is open to the public without the need for a concert ticket:

• The reception center: A 1,680 square foot space equipped with refreshment stations and seating to receive tickets and information for all Lincoln Center programming.
• The lobby: The newly expanded lobby has installed a large multimedia screen that provides a digital platform for simulcasting concerts, artwork, digital messaging, among other uses.
• The Sidewalk Studio: A multipurpose space open to the public for performances, talks, classes, screenings, community programming and more.

With support from Empire State Development, Lincoln Center has pledged to create 114 new full-time jobs, ranging from ticketing to stage crew and security, as well as launching a scholarship program for Diversity and the Arts which will provide paid training and mentoring for at least five Fellows over a period of five years. Lincoln Center is committed to organize at least 45 days of free new public programming per year for the first five years in the public spaces of David Geffen Hall.

Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said: “Economic development works like a symphony, with each player contributing in creative yet collaborative ways. The work we have done in harmony with our partners on the new David Geffen Hall is creating the welcome sounds of additional jobs, tourism and opportunity , through magnificent re-invent spaces where people can appreciate the uniqueness of Lincoln Center and New York.”

The re-invent David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center Supports Governor Hochul’s efforts to rebuild and revitalize post-pandemic tourism which, as the state’s third-largest industry, is crucial to the economic health of New York and New York State. With robust marketing campaigns and unprecedented tourism industry support programs under the Governor’s leadership, New York continues to promote the city and state as world-class travel destinations and drive growth. economy and job creation.

Empire State Vice President of Development and Executive Director of Tourism Ross D. Levi said: “Lincoln Center has always been a jewel in the crown of tourism in New York, and the new David Geffen Hall will encourage even more visitors to plan a trip and explore the city. Our tourism economies continue to rebuild after the devastating effects of the pandemic, and while we are moving forward, we are yet to return to our pre-pandemic benchmarks. I LOVE NY looks forward to promoting David Geffen Hall to a global audience as the latest arts and culture destination that will inspire visitors to be a part of all the excitement in New York State.”

President and CEO of Lincoln Center Henry Timms said, “David Geffen Hall is for New York and for New Yorkers, proof of our resilience after an extremely difficult time. We are deeply grateful to Governor Hochul and ESD for their commitment to this project and to New York’s cultural landscape. Finally, our hometown orchestra has a home to match its immense talent and creativity, boldly built through some of the darkest periods in New York history. To the millions of New Yorkers who we hope will find inspiration here, welcome.”

Deborah of the New York Philharmonic Orchestra bordaLinda and Mitch Hart, President and CEO, said: “The distinguished history of the New York Philharmonic is about to open a new chapter with the reopening of David Geffen Hall. We are emerging from the dark days of the pandemic and the process of rebuilding a stronger institution, transformed not only by new spaces but also by what we have learned from an ever-evolving conversation with our community. We are filled with gratitude to all of our partners, especially Empire State Development, who helped make this trip possible. Now is the time to start over.”