Massive expansion efforts underway at the Kansas Children's Discovery Center
TOPEKA (KSNT) - A Topeka nonprofit museum geared for children is breaking ground for a major expansion that is expected to more than double its size.
Laura Burton with the Kansas Children's Discovery Center said this $10 million project is expected to bring the museum up to more than 30,000 square feet of space once it is completed and add a host of new attractions for children and families to enjoy:
- An indoor climbing structure anchored by a two-story climbable sunflower.
- More than 10 new exhibit experiences featuring science, water power, civic engagement, dramatic play and more to inspire visitors.
- Three new learning lab classrooms for more STEAM-based childcare.
- A 3,000 square foot traveling exhibit gallery so the museum can host a wider selection of traveling exhibits.
- An indoor-outdoor learning space connecting a state-of-the-art teaching kitchen with an intergenerational, accessible garden area.
- Kansas-themed learning opportunities built-into exhibit spaces to excite future leaders and innovators.
- An inventive marketplace to give children space to explore and create in a collaborative environment.
- A nursing room, sensory-friendly space, group entrance and storm shelter.
Burton announced in a press release a groundbreaking ceremony is being held at 9 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 9 at Gage Park. This expansion effort is funded through a combination of private donations, corporate gifts, grants, the Gage Park Improvement Authority sales tax revenue and operating reserves.
Public feedback was gathered prior to the groundbreaking on what people would like to see added to the museum. You can find the Kansas Children's Discovery Center in Gage Park at 4400 Southwest 10th Avenue. Learn more about what it has to offer by clicking here.
For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here.