A Wisconsin construction company is donating $250,000 to a proposed performing arts center complex in Eau Claire's downtown.

Market and Johnson, which is one of the project developers, announced it would pledge the funds on Monday. Fundraising committee co-chair Gerald Bauer said the money goes a long way.

"I believe we’re probably close to the 55 percent mark. We’ve made it over the 50 percent hurdle. We have an aggressive four or five months to go, and I’m pretty enthusiastic about that as I think a lot of larger companies will come to the table as we get closer to the deadline," said Bauer.

Organizers want to raise $13.5 million by the end of May to qualify for a matching grant inserted in the state budget by Gov. Scott Walker. The Joint Finance Committee and the full Legislature still have to approve Walker’s grant.

The $44 million Confluence Performing Arts Center would house up to three theaters, along with classroom space.