Officials are getting ready to break ground on a massive expansion project at the Simcoe County Museum.
Local politicians will be gathering on Tuesday, Sept. 24 at the Midhurst facility, located just outside Barrie at 1151 Highway 26.
County council members and area partners will be kicking off the first phase of the expansion. The event runs from 12:30 p.m. to 1 p.m.
The first phase will include the creation of the 5,000-square-foot Matthews Innovation and Transportation Gallery and a 2,300-sq.-ft. space dedicated to curatorial functions and collections storage.
The overall project, which is estimated to cost around $16.6 million, is anticipated to be completed by 2030.
To facilitate the work, the museum building will be closed from November to March.
The Matthews Innovation and Transportation Gallery Project construction is scheduled to begin in late October.
The Matthews Innovation and Transportation Gallery plan includes a number of upgrades to the existing museum during a seven-year period, including improved gallery space and visitor experience, an environmentally friendly design with a zero-carbon building, improved security for temporary exhibits, and a more efficient room for meetings and special events.
Visit simcoe.ca for more information.
