IRONTON, OH (WOWK) – A historic theater in Lawrence County is getting a major makeover.

The Ro-Na Cultural Center in Ironton will be renovated with funds that come from a $5.2 million grant awarded by Gov. Mike DeWine (R-OH).

It opened in 1949 as a movie theater but closed in 1973. The building sat vacant until it was donated to the city in 2008 to be restored. It reopened to the public after years of restoration efforts.

The theater has been repurposed to serve as a live venue for musicians and comedians.

Cramblet says the renovations will include upgrades to the HVAC and lighting systems, balcony, upstairs space, and outdoor facade, among others.

Nora Carlisle has lived in Ironton her entire life. She says the Ro-Na has been the heart of the community since it opened.

“That building is an awesome place, I’ll tell you what. It has been the rock of Ironton, I think. It’s been several different things. But in the same building. But it has been a very nice place to go,” Carlisle said.

The grant is also expected to fund the Ironton Riverfront. Ironton Mayor Sam Cramblet says the city will add a new sea wall, a restaurant, an extended trail, a playground, and recreational parks.

Cramblet says both the Ro-Na and riverfront projects will be exciting renovations for the city.

“What it will do for our downtown, riverfront, entertainment, is going to be great,” Cramblet said.

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Cramblet tells 13 News he hopes both projects are completed by 2026 at the latest, if not sooner.

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