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News 2-25-05 Future plans
During the society's annual meeting held at the Gothenburg Senior Center, president Gail Hall told the audience that due to patrons' generous donations the museum was able to hire an architect to provide sketches of the possible expansion. "It was through the generosity of museum's patrons who graciously donated funds that began the planning process after last year's annual meeting," Hall said. "After many hours of discussion the architect was able to make three drawings and we want your (audience members) reactions to them." "The drawings are not cast in stone," said museum director Barb Vondras. "We were able to incorporate future growth patterns for the museum." The drawings show the plans in three phases and both Hall and Vondras said timelines for the expansion were not available yet. "I just hope this final phase happens yet in my lifetime," Hall added. Vondras agreed saying that the donation covered the architect's work but not construction. "The start date and any more work depends on the funds we receive." A three-dimensional model could be completed in a month or two, Vondras added. According to board member Wayne Young, phase one would enlarge the current exhibit areas. Some of those proposed spaces would be new agricultural displays, a walking tour of the mammoth, area highlights of sports, community, cultures and an exploratory center for children." Phase one would include a connection between the north end of the museum and the current agricultural exhibit building. "This area is new space and would not interfere with the museum's current access or activities," Vondras continued. Phase two includes refurbishing of the archives with fireproofing the research area plus a meeting and classroom area for public use. The restrooms, gift shop, staff area and work shop would be updated in the second phase. A new parking area is also planned in this phase. The third phase would include an exhibit building added to the south end of the museum toward the lake. "We are still in the discussion phase of the proposed layout," Hall said. "When plans are finalized information packets with the design and costs will be presented and available to the public. The three-dimensional model will also be available at that time." Hall said that the historical society board wants public input about the plans. "Each community will have the opportunity to view the plans and the model by the firms of Miller and Associates Consultation Engineers of Kearney," Vondras said. "Input is very important to the process because we are stewards to serve the public of Dawson County and visitors to the museum. "The foresight of the board is exciting because they are always considering not only today's needs, but the impact for future generations, which this plan demonstrates beyond a five-year project." After discussion of the project, the annual meeting continued with re-election to the board of Gail Hall, Keith Anthony, Barb Knapple, and Wayne Young all of Lexignton, and the election of new members Eric Salling, Susan Hart and Jan Anderson, all of Cozad. Past board member Rex German was recognized for his many years of service on the board and Margaret Nielsen for her volunteer work at the museum. Entertainment for this year's meeting was Sally Vifquain, speaker for the
Nebraska Humanities Council. She presented information about Fort Kearny and the migration of people and animals along the Platte River called "Migration on the Great Platte River Road." |
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[News 03-13-2006] [News 7-22-05] [News 2-25-05] [News 3-31-04] [News 4-16-03] |
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