Urbana, Illinois is known for its charming streets, friendly neighborhoods, and a vibrant cultural scene. However, there is one hidden gem that not many people know about: 202 E Green Street. This building has a rich history and is now a bustling hub for businesses and creatives alike. In this article, we will take a closer look at 202 E Green Street and everything it has to offer.
The History of 202 E Green Street
202 E Green Street was built in the early 1900s and initially housed a grocery store. Over the years, it served as a base for various businesses, including a bakery, a bookstore, and a music store. In the 1970s, the building was converted into a movie theater, showing classic films and indie productions. Unfortunately, the theater closed down in the early 2000s due to financial struggles.
However, in 2010, a group of local entrepreneurs and creatives saw the potential of the building and decided to give it a new life. They renovated the space, preserving its historic charm while adding modern amenities. Today, 202 E Green Street is a thriving center for innovation, entrepreneurship, and creativity.
The Businesses at 202 E Green Street
Coworking Spaces
202 E Green Street is home to several coworking spaces, including The Hatch and The Urbana-Champaign Independent Media Center (UCIMC). The Hatch is a startup incubator that provides resources and support to entrepreneurs and small businesses. It offers private offices, shared workspaces, and conference rooms. The UCIMC is a non-profit organization that supports independent media and activism. It provides affordable coworking spaces to individuals and groups working on social justice issues.
Art Galleries
202 E Green Street is also a hub for artists and art lovers. The building houses several art galleries, including the Cinema Gallery and the Indi Go Artist Co-Op. The Cinema Gallery showcases contemporary art in various mediums, including painting, sculpture, and photography. The Indi Go Artist Co-Op is a collective of local artists who showcase their work and collaborate on projects.
The Events at 202 E Green Street
202 E Green Street is not just a place for work and creativity; it is also a place for community and culture. The building hosts several events throughout the year, including art exhibitions, film screenings, live music shows, and workshops. Some of the regular events include:
Friday Night Live
Every Friday night, The Hatch hosts a live music show featuring local and regional bands. The event is free and open to the public, and it's a great way to discover new music and meet new people.
First Friday
On the first Friday of every month, the art galleries at 202 E Green Street host an opening reception for their new exhibitions. The event is free and open to the public, and it's a great way to see some amazing art and meet the artists.
The Future of 202 E Green Street
202 E Green Street has come a long way since its days as a grocery store. Today, it is a thriving center for innovation, creativity, and community. However, the building's owners and tenants are not resting on their laurels. They are constantly looking for ways to improve the space and make it even more welcoming and inspiring.
One of the upcoming projects at 202 E Green Street is the renovation of the theater space. The owners are planning to turn it into a state-of-the-art performance venue that can host plays, concerts, and film screenings. This project is still in the works, but it's an exciting prospect for the building and the community.
Conclusion
202 E Green Street is a hidden gem in Urbana, Illinois that deserves more attention. It's a historic building with a rich past and a bright future. It's a place where entrepreneurs, creatives, and activists can come together and collaborate. It's a place where art, culture, and community thrive. If you're ever in Urbana, make sure to visit 202 E Green Street and see for yourself what makes it so special.
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