Discovery Depot Children’s Museum in Galesburg recently announced the build-out phase has began for its 2nd floor expansion.
Building has undergone improvements such as a new roof, HVAC and electrical system, office, and kitchen. Executive Director of Discovery Depot, Denise Bradburn says the 2nd floor offers an additional 7,300 square feet of space.
“Our 2nd floor obviously has very high ceilings,” Bradburn said. “Part of this expansion will be putting in an elevator and a primary staircase to get up to the 2nd floor. Then we will fill that space with exhibits, as well as a new science learning classroom for community members to enjoy.”
The museum has exceeded 80% of its fundraising goal, and the “Waves of the Future” expansion is set to be open to the public in 2019. Bradburn says in a news release that the 2nd floor will have a larger, more urban, industrial feel to it. The expansion’s fundraising campaign has been the largest in the museum’s 22 year history. “The project was initially a $1.5 million dollar project,” Bradburn added. “With the project, we did a new roof, properly insulated the building. We looked at a lot of the infrastructure in going to the upstairs. We’re pretty excited about it. The board has been very diligent in making sure it’s done right.”
The main floor will have some more exhibits added as well. As one of the largest tourism attractions in Knox County, with over 40,000 visitors per year, the Depot hopes to draw even more visitors with the new expansion and more engaging exhibits. The opportunity for families, individuals, and organizations to be a part of the growth is there as the expansion and fundraising continues. A “Giving Wall” will include the names of donors who have aided in the expansion.
