In 2011, after Tropical Storm Irene flooded downtown Waterbury, there was a concerted community renewal effort to establish a multi-disciplinary arts center through the Economic Development sector of the FEMA Long Term Community Recovery process. Although this was a longstanding desire of the community prior to the flood, it was recognized as a key component to aid in the economic recovery of Waterbury. Out of this effort Across Roads Center for the Arts was created.
In 2012, Across Roads merged with *Waterbury Activities and Cultural Center (WACC) to carry on the momentum and creative strength that the group had brought to the community, with a focus of a physical arts center resource for the region.Waterbury’s unique geographical placement allows for Across Roads to serve as a regional arts hub.
We envision Across Roads as a creative space where community members of all ages and backgrounds can explore the arts and create their own paths toward discovering art within themselves and their community.
CONNECTING — offering collaboration opportunities for a diversity of perspective to come together economically and culturally in artistic, industrial and community innovation.
STIMULATING — leveraging cultural assets generates income for a region, while forming a community environment that inspires creative thinking in everyone and encourages people to explore diverse skills.
ESTABLISHING — securing and conveying our community’s vibrant sense of place as a key to our sustainable economic vitality.
The self-sustaining vision includes programming and facilities that provide both community enrichment as well as revenue streams to support the Across Roads Center for the Arts operating budget. Across Roads is committed to:
-Presenting diverse, multi-disciplinary creative work in the region
-Designing education and programming to stimulate the creation of new work and celebrate existing creative work
-Connecting artists, arts organizations, and creative entrepreneurial ventures
-Strengthening the artist community and local economy
317 Howard Avenue
Waterbury Center, VT 05677