The Family Museum will undergo a $749,520 renovation that will feature a new “On the Road” experience to take museumgoers on a cross-country trek after the Bettendorf City Council unanimously OK’d the project on Tuesday, Dec. 5.
The council also awarded the contract to designer KidZibits, Inc.
According to a news release from the city, the company says “there is a great big world out there, full of unknown and unexpected things.” And the “On the Road” exhibit will allow young adventure-seekers to visit them at the Family Museum.
“We are extremely excited about this upcoming renovation at the Family Museum,” said Kim Kidwell, culture and recreation director. “‘On The Road’ is a unique exhibit that intertwines generations and will allow families to reminisce about road trips and vacations they have taken, all while exploring hands-on educational experiences.”
She added, “We are grateful for the support of the City of Bettendorf, our local and private foundations, as well as the generous donors that have contributed to this project.”
Kids can explore the U.S.
Designed by KidZibits, “On the Road” is an experience that will take visitors on a cross-country adventure. They will explore culture, nostalgia and the natural world as they trek along and map out their own journeys. With an emphasis on collaborative play, visitors will learn about the U.S. geography, ecology, history and culture. The exhibit will be built in a 2,500-square-foot space once was used for traveling exhibits.
“Renovating this space to a permanent exhibit allows the Family Museum to increase its financial stability and aligns with the Museum’s Strategic Plan,” said Ms. Kidwell.
Construction of “On the Road” is expected to begin in early 2024 and is anticipated to take nine months to complete.
The Family Museum of Arts and Sciences is located at 2900 Learning Campus Drive. For more information, visit www.familymuseum.org or call (563) 344-4106.
