CHICAGO – The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry is set to transform its historic south portico thanks to a generous $10 million grant from the Richard H. Driehaus Foundation.
Renovations are slated to begin this spring and are expected to be completed by 2027. The museum plans to enhance accessibility, update amenities, and create lively public areas. One exciting feature will be a café and a terrace that offers stunning views of Jackson Park’s lagoon and the upcoming Obama Presidential Center, which is set to open in 2026.
As part of the renovations, the museum will install an elevator to make it easier for everyone to visit. The museum will remain open during construction, ensuring that access to the road and park is unaffected.
The Museum of Science and Industry, which originally served as the centerpiece for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition, is the only relic left from that era’s “White City.” This renovation will reconnect the museum with the beautiful Columbian Basin and restore its original main entryway.
Museum President and CEO Chevy Humphrey expressed excitement about the renovations, stating that they honor the museum’s rich history while also making it more welcoming for visitors. Similarly, David Vitale, the museum board’s chairman, emphasized the importance of preserving this historic site and strengthening ties with the community. This vital project reflects the board’s dedication to enhancing the museum’s mission.
All these changes aim to ensure that the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry remains a source of inspiration for generations to come.
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