What's happening: New exhibits and spaces are included in renovation plans for the Imagination Factory Children’s Museum in Iron Mountain. Located in the former Iron Mountain Middle School, the museum will add new exhibits and reimagine space to support children of all ages. Highlighting the expansion is the push for a Tiny Town exhibit, which has 10 small “community buildings” with interactive play features.
A need to expand: At just 3,000 square feet, the current museum has no room to expand, create new exhibits or promote large events in a family-friendly environment. The renovated museum will explode to 13,000 square feet and feature five exhibit rooms, a party room and a space for the kids to be physically active. Additional space will be provided for a commercial kitchen and family resource center.
What they're saying: “The preservation and reinvigoration of this historic institution will allow the community of Iron Mountain to have a beloved space for gathering that also honors its cultural history,” said Paula Holtz, who is managing director of Regional Prosperity Michigan Economic Development Corporation. “We are pleased to support and provide resources for this project through our Public Spaces Community Places program.”
What's next: To qualify for full funding, a crowdfunding goal of $50,000 was set to match funds from MEDC. To donate, visit the crowdfunding website Patronicity and search “Tiny Town.” Fundraising runs through April 3, 2025.
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