Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - Throughout her life, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul has had nothing but the fondest of memories when it comes to Shea's Performing Arts Center.
It began as a child when her parents took her to Shea's to see "The Sound of Music" movie.
That's why when Shea's president and CEO Brian Higgins - a longtime friend of Hochul - asked her for some additional state help with the venerable theater's $34.6 million expansion project, the governor gave a quick response.
"He had me at yes," Hochul said.
Hochul announced she was allocating another $5 million for the project on Monday moring to help Shea's finance the expansion project.
Combined with previous allocations, Hochul and New York have put in $18.5 million for the expansion project.
The money isn't sentimental, Hochul said.
Shea's is a major economic engine not only in the downtown Theatre District but the entire central business district.
"It supports so many," Hochul said. "We are writing the next chapter for the Theatre District."
Shea's brings in more than 350,000 people annually and has an economic impact north of $100 million.
The expansion, facing Shea's Pearl Street side, was designed by Carmina Wood Design.
The four-story, 25,600-square-foot addition will be anchored by a new box office and lobby, lounges, concession stands, bathrooms, elervators and special event space.
Officials say the expansion project should be completed by mid-2027.
"It is a massive undertaking," Hochul said.