Upgrade Set for Theater Where Lincoln Was Shot

Jun 03, 10:43 AM

Current Headlines: WASHINGTON (AP) -- The theater where Abraham Lincoln was shot will be getting an $8.5 million upgrade over the next year and a half.

The improvements to Ford's Theatre will include its first elevator, new restrooms and renovations to the heating, air conditioning, lighting and sound systems, the National Park Service said.

The 144-year-old theater last underwent restoration in the 1960s, said Park Service spokesman Bill Line. The repairs are being done in part to improve access for the disabled.

The closure was announced Thursday. The Park Service hopes to reopen the theater in November 2008. About 1 million people visit each year.

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