The 80-year-old Museum of Science at Toledo Zoo is undergoing a major renovation that includes the installation of new interactive exhibits and a tropical greenhouse.
When it reopens in 2019 it will be rebranded as a natural history museum. According to Toledo Zoo, it will focus on the biodiversity of local habitats and wildlife throughout history.
Visitors will get to experience Ohio as it was 13,000 years ago, see and touch live animals and walk through the two-story, sensory-rich tropical greenhouse. Exhibits will focus on capturing the interest of children and getting them excited about natural science.
Jeff Sailer, president and CEO of the Toledo Zoo, said: “A lot of the initial research and a lot of the initial drugs come directly from the natural world, and I think that’s one of the reasons we often say it’s important to save as many of these little nondescript animals that people may complain are holding up development or construction. We don’t know what kind of potential pharmaceuticals they may have.”
The building is one of several in the WPA style of architecture on the zoo’s campus and is the last to be renovated. Healthcare firm ProMedica has donated $3.5m to help pay for the project.
“We are honoured to have a partner that understands human health and well-being is supported by a healthy natural environment,” Sailer added. “Since the very beginning, ProMedica has shared our vision of creating a new educational yet entertaining opportunity for the local community to enjoy.”
Construction on the project is expected to be completed by the spring of 2019.
Image: c. Toledo Zoo.
https://www.13abc.com/content/news/Toledo-Zoo-Museum-Gets-New-Life-476050593.html
