The Phase II project is underway. Visitors can expect safe and easy access
to all the extraordinary exhibits, programs and special events at the museum.
The Phase II project includes:
A new Welcome Center
Extension of the skywalk connecting the garage to the new Welcome Center
Passenger drop-off lanes on the east side of Illinois Street
Expansion and relocation of InfoZone
A new freight entrance
Expansion of the museum dock (all shipping and receiving)
A bike port and additional greening of the campus.
Construction fencing features colorful LEGO® construction characters. The LEGO® theme will continue on wayfinding signs throughout the project. Curious children and families will have the opportunity to check out the construction as it happens when they stand on the Level 2 Mezzanine’s Construction overlook.
The garage and ramp across Illinois Street will remain open during the first part of construction. Staff, visitors and volunteers will have two ways to get to the Welcome Center: the ramp across Illinois Street from the parking garage or the construction walkway.
Visitors who need access to the InfoZone and are not seeking admission to the museum will enter through an ADA accessible temporary walkway off Meridian Street.
The InfoZone is open to the public Sept. 1 – March 1, Tuesday – Thursday from 10am – 8pm and Friday – Sunday from 10am – 5pm.
New homes have been found for the turtles and fish in the pond on Festival Park. The statues, flagpoles and weather station on Festival Park will be relocated on the museum campus when the Phase II project is complete.
