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GREENSBORO — Task force leaders are getting back to business with a goal of bringing a performing arts center to downtown Greensboro.

Tuesday, the new "Outreach, Communications and Marketing Committee" held its first meeting, in what leaders call "phase two" of the planning process; working to put the center on the May ballot.

Project leaders say there is no question a performing arts center is feasible in Greensboro's downtown area. But now they are facing new questions from city leaders.

"[The city leaders want to know] what's it going to look like, where's it going to go, who is going to run it, and how are we going to pay for it," said project manager Ross Harris.

Phase two of planning includes new committees, with goals of mapping out a project concept, operating model, financing options and marketing it all to the community. Tuesday, the outreach group brainstormed some grassroots efforts to advertise the center with a heavy emphasis on young adults.

"A performing arts center would help up retain young professionals in Greensboro, so we think that they would be even more interested in it than others perhaps," said Co-chair for Community Engagement Donna Newton.

In October, the community will have a chance to see center models for the three sites:

1. A site where North Elm Street meets Bellemeade Street.
2. A site adjacent to the News and Record building.
3. A site behind the Carolina Theatre.

While architects work to build the concept, task leaders are requesting $200,000 in funding from city leaders to pay for planning guidance from a consulting firm.

"We think it's time for them to invest and everything we heard at the council meeting on June 19. When we made our final presentation, we believe that they're ready to do that," said Newton.

City leaders are expected to vote on the proposed funding at their Tuesday meeting. A final vote on the whole project will happen December 18.