Just over four weeks ago, Walton Arts Center officials announced their selection criteria for expansion, and set a deadline of March 15 for potential site submission proposals.

On Friday, however, the Walton Arts Center announced that they need more time.

Citing discussions with area Chamber of Commerce and other leaders in the region, concerns about the economy and the ability to put more detailed proposals together, the WAC announced that the new deadline to submit potential sites for consideration in their expansion project is Aug. 2.

“Extending the deadline is the right thing to do,” says Peter Lane, President/CEO of Walton Arts Center. “Since the site selection criteria were released, we’ve received a great deal of feedback on the process. This feedback indicates that the parties involved need more time to gather ideas and create proposals.”

Lane said that he feels extending the deadline will be a good thing.

“By giving everyone more time to consider their proposal, we are ensuring a fair and inclusive process” he said.