Both the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation (ECHDC) Board and the Buffalo Planning Board met this week and approved the architectural plans so that construction can begin on the new Explore & More Children’s Museum at Canalside.
“Today’s design approval is the final step for Explore & More Children’s Museum at Canalside before construction begins on this much anticipated project,” said ECHDC Chairman Robert Gioia. “The museum is an important component of our work to redevelop the South Aud Block and build on the amenities and attractions that are drawing millions of people to Canalside.”
The lower floors of the museum will be activated with a café along the Canal Towpath and a retail space on the ground floor along Lloyd Street, anchoring the corner of Lloyd Street and Marine Drive. The ground floor will also include two entrances for museum guests, allowing school groups to be separated from daily visitors as necessary. The second floor includes a two-story educational play zone along the canals while the third floor provides more educational play zones and views of the Buffalo River. On the fourth floor, overlooking the canals and the city skyline as backdrop, a rooftop terrace will allow museum guests to views of Canalside from a unique vantage point, with more educational play zone exhibit areas inside.
With the design now complete and approved, construction will begin in March 2017. LeChase Construction is providing construction management services for the pre-construction and construction of the children’s museum core and shell structure.
“We are thrilled to be moving forward with our plans for this one-of-a-kind children’s Museum at Canalside,” said Douglas Love, CEO, Explore & More Children’s Museum. “With groundbreaking next month, it will be wonderful for children and families in the City and visiting the City to watch this place being built just for them.”
