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The Telus World of Science has received a $3.35 million boost from the federal government to expand its facilities. The Honourable Amarjeet Sohi, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities and Member of Parliament (Edmonton Mill Woods), and Randy Boissonnault, Member of Parliament (Edmonton Centre) formally announced the funding for the Edmonton Space and Science Foundation on Thursday.
Arranged through the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund, the funding will go directly to the Aurora Project, the Science Centre's $40 million expansion and renovation initiative. Major upgrades will be coming to the Margaret Zeidler Star Theatre under the scheme, which proposes a "21st-century digital visualization theatre" referred to as the North Star Dome. Enhancements to the largest planetarium in Canada include a new entranceway, seat replacement, electrical and HVAC upgrades, installation of an elevator, and a new screen. New lighting and HVAC systems will also be coming to the Space Gallery, which would increase its area by 600 square feet.
A new Arctic Gallery will feature interactive exhibits and activities that portray the challenges facing the north. An expanded Early Childhood Learning Centre and updates to the engineering, mathematics and technology galleries are also included in the vision.
"When it comes to investing in cultural infrastructure in Edmonton, the Government of Canada has it down to a science," said Randy Boissonnault in a news release. "For over 30 years, Telus World of Science – Edmonton has been a hub for education and creativity, inspiring and engaging visitors of all ages in art, math, science and technology. This funding will not only ensure a continued positive culture of learning, but also create a legacy of quality infrastructure investment in our capital city, of which we can all be proud."
At 130,000 gross square feet, the 1984-built Coronation Park facility is the smallest of the six major science centres in the country. The 20,000-square-foot expansion would alleviate crush crowds at the complex and allow for increased capacity throughout the exhibition spaces. The initiative began in 2015 after the City contributed $12 million to the three-year project, which is designed by DIALOG.
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