A $30-million conversion of the former armouries and Palace theatre complex in the city's core has the potential to create a Stratford-like atmosphere and an economic boost to Windsor's economy, a news conference was told Monday.

"This can be the spark that ignites everything -- not just for Windsor, but the county and the region," said Windsor Symphony Orchestra maestro John Morris Russell. "This can be something that shows Windsor is a wonderful destination."

Backers of a proposal that would see conversion of the former armouries into a concert hall connected by a glass atrium to the Palace Theatre complex stood outside the site Monday to tout the benefits of the plan and urge community support.

Highlights include a 1,150-seat concert hall, four-screen multiplex theatre and outdoor-indoor performance stage. The Star revealed the proposal Saturday following months of closed-door discussions among the Windsor Symphony Orchestra, University of Windsor, St. Clair College and the city to develop a cultural hub at Ouellette and University avenues.

Russell believes arts and culture can bring dollars into the community in the same manner as any sports venue or other attraction.

"Arts can transform the city," he said. "Creating a cultural trust that rolls in the Palace and Capitol (theatre) can bring together musicians, theatre companies and dance troupes that can bring growth and prosperity through our region."

The cultural trust idea was developed based on a similar non-profit model in Pittsburgh that combines nearly all of that city's arts and culture properties and agencies under one umbrella. The trust ends competition among groups and allows for savings by having one promotion, ticket-selling and maintenance entity.