JAMESTOWN – A project that would build a first of its kind indoor play space in Downtown Jamestown has received a sizable chunk of state funding.

The Northwest Arena’s TheZone project was awarded a $450,000 grant from Empire State Development.

TheZone, part of a downtown revitalization effort for Jamestown, aims to lower barriers to play offering engaging sports-themed experiences that encourages the development of physical skills and metal stimulation through indoor, year-round play.

Arena officials say the fundraising campaign for TheZone is the key component of an $8.5 million dollar project to expand the arena.

With $4.5 million already pledged and the physical expansion complete, the campaign is seeking $4 million in charitable investment.

The Jamestown Center City Development Corporation first petitioned for the funding, which was awarded as part of $81 million to 97 projects across New York State.