The Saratoga Performing Arts Center has put its $2.5 million renovation on hold because of the state’s deep financial crisis, according to Albany’s Times Union newspaper. The state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation planned to use capital funds to improve the PAC’s façade but the state has frozen the money.

“We have to assess the needs and the timing as we move forward,” agency communications director Eileen Larrabee told the paper. “We are committed to improvements at SPAC. Obviously, the current financial situation presents challenges in timing for improvements.”

The present façade will remain in 2009 and renovations to the amphitheatre’s 43-year-old ramp, railings and globe lights are delayed until at least the spring, according to the Times Union.

The shed’s exterior required retooling after it drew fire from the public. The wavy structure was disliked, drawing comparisons to a stack of pancakes or dirty dishes.