Polk Co. Conservation has plans for the old SCI building
Posted on June 22, 2007 in Around the metro by DM
The new Science Center of Iowa just south of downtown Des Moines reached its three-year attendance projection in just two years. There’s no question the new Center has been a huge draw for area and visiting families.
But what’s to happen to the old Science Center building in Greenwood Park? Polk County Conservation Director Pat Boddy would like to see a blend of nature, art and learning in the building and surrounding woodlands - creative conservation education, made uniquely possible by the particular combination of park land, Sylvan Amphitheater, the building itself, pond, trails, and adjacent Water Works Park and Raccoon River.
This PDF file from the Conservation Board website gives a better description. Pat tells me they are currently developing a business plan for the project, which will then be given to a fund-raising consultant to do the feasibility study. That study will answer the question, “Will the community support this project with financial gifts?” With those answers in hand, Pat said she’ll have a better feel for whether the project can succeed. She noted that the project is a collaboration among several groups, including the City of Des Moines Parks & Recreation, Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation, RDG, RDG Dahlquist Art Studios, Open Arts Studios, Metro Arts Alliance, and private citizens.
“We hope to begin fund-raising in the fall,” she said. “…if the Greenwood Center can become a reality, it will be a huge community asset.”
Photo courtesy of Polk County Conservation Board. Updated 6/25/07 to add the list of partnering organizations.
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