St. Lawrence Church zoning agreement changes (76 Congress Street)
Portland
Summary
A small nonprofit has spent 16 years trying to build a mid-sized theater on Congress Street, and the zoning clock was about to run out. The board kept the project alive but insisted on a ten-year deadline, balancing neighborhood frustration over the fenced-off corner against strong artist support.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 1
- Last 30 days
- 1
Discussed at 1 meeting in the last 60 days; most recently Oct 27, 2026.
Impact analysis
The project budget has been cut roughly in half from the original $20 million plan, with fundraising about 80% complete.
Portland's performing artists gain a mid-sized venue that doesn't currently exist, and the historic parish hall gets an income stream.
Some Munjoy Hill neighbors worry a 400-seat venue will strain parking and change a denser neighborhood.
Mentions & discussions (1)
Related development
43 St. Lawrence Street New Construction
The lot sits empty since a 2025 fire and demolition; the new building rebuilds the street wall, replaces the sidewalk, adds a street tree, and reduces impervious area.
76 Congress Street Conditional Zoning Agreement Amendment (C-58)
The amendment keeps the long-stalled theater project alive while giving neighbors a firm end date if it never gets built.
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