Children’s Discovery Museum to replace and update climbing exhibit

Posted on November 24, 2020
Construction is anticipated within the next two years, depending on the grant agreement and funding cycle. (Photo courtesy Children’s Discovery Museum)

 

By Neil Doyle

NORMAL – The Children’s Discovery Museum will be replacing and updating its Luckey Climber exhibit after receiving a grant from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

Last week, Gov. Pritzker announced 43 Illinois museums will share $22.8 million in state capital investments to improve their facilities and develop new exhibits. The Children’s Discovery Museum Foundation was awarded $568,700 for the design, fabrication and installation of a new Luckey Climber. The foundation will add $10,000 in private funds to help cover demolition costs.

The design concept for the Luckey Climber. (Photo courtesy Children’s Discovery Museum)

The updated design will use different materials to introduce a new look to the space, to enhance the sensory experience and to improve exhibit sanitation.

“We’ve always been vigilant about cleaning our Climber, but COVID-19 presented new challenges regarding speed and ease of cleaning high-touch surfaces in tight spaces,” said Beth Whisman, executive director of the CDM. “We took this opportunity to rethink several aspects of the exhibit to improve access to play and overall sanitation.”

The Luckey Climber has been the centerpiece of play for the CDM since it opened its doors in Uptown Normal in 2004.

Construction is anticipated within the next two years, depending on the grant agreement and funding cycle.

Neil Doyle can be reached at [email protected]

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