The New Bedford Whaling Museum plans a 20,000 sq ft expansion to enhance exhibits and events, improving visitor experience and accessibility
New Bedford: The New Bedford Whaling Museum is gearing up for a big expansion. They’re planning to add a new 20,000 square foot building to their campus. This new space will help them showcase more exhibits and host larger events.
With over 80,000 visitors each year, the museum is a popular spot. The new building will be located on William Street and will serve as the main entrance. It’s all part of a plan to create a more connected campus with better accessibility.
Right now, the museum has some limitations on what they can display. Amanda McMullen, the museum’s president, mentioned that they often have to scale back on exhibitions due to space issues. The new center will feature six spacious galleries, allowing them to host bigger shows and display more of their collection.
For instance, their recent shows have been a hit, but they’ve had to leave out some pieces because of space constraints. The new exhibition center will change that, giving them the ability to showcase more artifacts and rotating exhibitions.
The museum is also a cultural hub in the area, offering programs for families and school groups. It highlights New Bedford’s maritime history and features impressive exhibits, including whale skeletons and a unique 3D theater experience.
As for the cost, the project is estimated at around $32 million. They’ve already raised over $21 million, mostly from private donations. The city has also chipped in with some grants to support the expansion.
Construction is expected to start in the spring or summer of 2025, with a completion date set for fall 2026. This expansion is not just about more space; it’s about enhancing the museum’s role in the community and boosting the local economy.
Overall, this project is a big step forward for the New Bedford Whaling Museum, and it’s exciting to see how it will evolve in the coming years.
