A new building for the ExpERIEnce Children’s Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania is almost complete. The original museum building, constructed in 1906, stayed open throughout the construction process, so that families could still enjoy it. The old building will undergo renovations after the new one opens in late June.
Building Four Fabrication, a builder of museums and commercial exhibits based in Atlanta, is handling the construction of the ExpERIEnce Children’s Museum. At present, the company is putting the finishing touches on the construction and putting together displays for the new museum building.
Key features of the ExpERIEnce Children’s Museum
The museum board estimated the cost of building the entire project at $18 million. This includes the new museum building, an outdoor classroom, and renovations of the existing museum building. The new building was designed by Weber Murphy Fox and spans 19,000 square feet at the corner of French and East Fifth streets.
During a tour of the new building, the museum director, Ainslie Brosig pointed out that one floor would highlight Lake Erie. The star attraction on this floor is a climbing ship, and it is also accessible to those with disabilities. The ship was built with a giant captain’s wheel and a cushioned floor to prevent injuries in case of a fall. Another popular exhibit in the old museum was the water table, which will also be included in the new building. The new table is 45 feet long and is accompanied by dryers.
Once the renovations on the existing building start, it will take a year to complete. The new building will have three classrooms, an art studio, and an innovation station.
FAQs
When will the new ExpERIEnce Children’s Museum building open?
The new ExpERIEnce Children’s Museum building will open in late June.
What are some key features of the new museum building?
The new building spans 19,000 sq ft, includes an outdoor classroom, and was designed by Weber Murphy Fox. One floor will be dedicated to Lake Erie and will include a climbing ship, inspired by the U.S. Brig Niagara. There is also a large water table exhibit that is 45 feet long and includes dryers.
What is the cost of building the entire project?
The estimated cost of the entire project is $18 million.
What will happen to the old museum building?
The old museum building will undergo renovations after the new one opens in late June.
