Framing Complete for Second Wave Expansion: Brickwork and Roofing Set to Begin
Published: October 25, 2024
As we approach mid-fall, we have fantastic updates to share on our Second Wave expansion project! If you’ve been following along, you’ll know that this 5,000-square-foot addition to our primary exhibit building will be a game-changer for the museum, providing dedicated space for community education and Great Lakes-focused conversations. But that’s not all—we’re also creating two new exhibit areas that will allow us to feature both temporary and traveling Smithsonian-quality exhibits, as well as permanent displays that dive deeper into Great Lakes history.
What’s Happening on Site?
Things are really starting to take shape! Here’s where we are with construction:
- Metal framing is up: The skeleton of the new space is standing tall. All the framing is complete, and it’s wonderful to see the building taking shape.
- Rough walls and roof prep are underway: Construction crews are hard at work roughing in the walls, and roof preparations have already begun.
- Exterior work begins soon: Next week, the brick layers will arrive to start enclosing the structure, giving us a real sense of what the facade of the finished space will look like.
Check out the latest progress photos.
Rough walls and roof prep begin.
Exterior walls are taking shape.
Facade work, including brick laying, begins.
One of the more exciting developments is that the St. Mary’s Challenger pilot house has been cut into, allowing us to create a seamless connection to the addition. Soon, you’ll be able to explore the maritime experience any time of year!
New Additions to the Team!
As we make strides on the construction front, we’re also celebrating two new arrivals within our museum family. Two crew members from the Lathrop construction team recently welcomed new babies into their families! While not directly related to our construction updates, it’s always a joy to celebrate growth—both in the museum and in the lives of those helping to make it happen.
Stay tuned for more updates as we move forward with this exciting project. We can’t wait to invite you into the new space, which will open doors to even more Great Lakes history, conversations, and immersive experiences!
