We were pleased to learn that plans are proceeding apace to resurrect the Delft Theater in downtown Marquette.

Mining Journal readers Tuesday found out that the Marquette City Commission the night before had OK’d an application for a Community Development Block Grant to help offset costs associated with converting the venerable site into a 250-seat restaurant.

The building also would serve as a “dinner theater” with classic movies shown three or four nights a week. A front page story written by Staff Writer Christie Bleck had details.

The grant, administrated through the Michigan Economic Development Corp., would be for $481,000 to help fund the $1.6 million project that is expected to bring 25 to 30 jobs to the area.

The Delft closed as a theater about two years ago. Since then, the building and facade have fallen into disrepair.

Bleck wrote that the project will involve restoration and maintenance of the historic facade, the original 1914 design of which was copied from Dutch architecture. The marquee will also be restored and relit.

Developers plan to show classic movies in the venue several times a week in a multi-level design. The theater will also be reconnected to Donckers on the second, third and fourth levels.

Executive Director Mona Lang of the Marquette Downtown Development Authority, which will apply for the grant, opined the theater is an important part of the city’s downtown.

We couldn’t agree more and wish the developers the best of luck in completing the project.