Construction for Great River Children’s Museum Making Big Leaps Since Breaking Ground Last Year

(KNSI) — Since the groundbreaking for the Great River Children’s Museum last year, officials say huge strides have been made toward its completion.

They say key achievements include asbestos abatement, demolition, adding square footage, pouring new footings, and installing steel. Executive Director Cassie Miles says a host of contractors are working on the indoor attractions. “All of our exhibits are being fabricated by subcontractors that are down in Brooklyn Park. They’re our lead contractor for our exhibits, but we’re working with a number of different teams, one out of Memphis, Tennessee, a few others that are local.” The eight core exhibits will be designed by those teams, including Great Big River, Climber to the Clouds, and Headwaters.

A steel structure for the climber display will be installed in a couple of weeks. Then, over the next several months, things will start to come together. Upcoming tasks include starting the atrium and an outdoor exhibit.

Director of Development Kelly Doss emphasized the importance of local help to fund the institution after it is up and running. “We do rely on community support as well to make the museum the best it can be. We actually have a fundraiser coming up as we’re gearing up towards operation mode, hiring staff, and filling up the beautiful space. November 16th, we’ll be having our first-ever game night gala.”

It will be at Granite Innovations, and the theme will be Chutes and Ladders. Tickets are already on sale. Find them by clicking here.

The museum is on schedule despite weather challenges and steel delays. A soft opening is tentatively set for spring, with a grand opening in the works for late spring or early summer.

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