Grand Rapids Public Museum and city leaders held a dedication ceremony unveiling a plaque commemorating the city’s 175th anniversary to be installed outside the museum.
The dedication also included the museum’s nearly completed riverfront improvements.
It’s part of an ongoing $50 million renovation which includes the 1928 Spillman Carousel in the Cook Pavilion and outdoor areas.
It adds event space, hands-on science stations, more access to the Grand River, improved walkways and trails plus an outdoor classroom.
Dale Robertson is the Museum President and CEO.
“Really, it’s a public park because it will be open regardless of whether the museum is open or not. The public can come and enjoy it any time they want to and it’s designed to have access to the river regardless of the river’s height, which goes up and down, and it’s designed to be accessible regardless of someone’s mobility needs.”
Inside the Van Andel Museum Center, exhibits are undergoing a refresh, honoring the region’s cultural history and adding greater accessibility.
The Community Archives and Research Center will soon have a new public space, allowing more community access to the quarter-million artifacts and specimens in the museum's collections.
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