One new exhibit planned for the Discovery Depot in Galesburg could bring in a flow of visitors. The children’s museum said it will add a water exhibit as part of its expansion plans.
Denise Bradburn, Executive Director of Discovery Depot, said the water exhibit will look like a long flowing river. It will offer a variety of interactive opportunities.
“There would be a lock and dam system, where children can learn how a lock and dam works. Bernoulli’s Principle on water. There will be pipe play, where they’ll learn water control and change of direction,” Bradburn said.
Bradburn said the museum will also add a science exhibit that includes a working classroom, which could be used to teach programs related to physical, biological, and natural sciences. She said decisions on what will be taught will be made after the expansion is complete.
Other planned upgrades include an elevator and a sprinkler system.
The upgrades will cost an estimated $1.5 million, with the museum receiving $500,000 in TIF funds from the city of Galesburg over a five year period.
Bradburn said the museum will have to raise the other $1 million.
“So far, individual families and donors have contributed nearly $47,000. And then we have grants and (requests) out here within our community, so we’re just now starting to put that altogether,” Bradburn said.
Bradburn said the project is expected to begin sometime next year.
