Gov. Kathy Hochul has officially opened the gates to imagination and learning for Utica's youngest residents with the unveiling of the new $8 million Utica Children's Museum. The museum, sitting proudly as a part of a larger $14 million ICAN Family Resource Center project, is designed to be an active playground for the mind, with an array of interactive and educational exhibits spread across its 14,000 square feet of space. In a statement obtained by the Governor's Office, Hochul expressed her pride in "this wonderful space for the Mohawk Valley" that promises school readiness, career exposure, and improved socialization for children.
According to an announcement from the Governor's Office, the state of New York has pitched in with a $750,000 grant from state capital funding, with additional capital funding of over $1 million from Empire State Development and a $300,000 capital grant from the New York State Council on the Arts. Executive Director Meghan Fraser McGrogan emphasized the inclusive, inspiring design of the museum, ensuring it to be an environment where "families can come together to play, learn and create lasting memories."
The exhibits reflect the diverse community of the Mohawk Valley, from its culture to its industries. Visitors can look forward to six new galleries and 60 custom-fabricated exhibits when the museum opens its doors to the public on May 1. The museum is grounded in Universal Design principles, making sure it's accessible to all visitors, regardless of ability, according to the Governor's Office. From the hands-on maker space 'Build It Up' to 'The Cove,' a space dedicated to winding down, each exhibit is purpose-built for fostering intellectual development and creativity.
The museum is part of ICAN's innovative approach to integrate family-based programs within the Family Resource Center, which also offers a community room for local organizations. Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Hope Knight stated, "Having a first-rate children's museum in Utica opens up a whole new world of exploration to families," as she acknowledged the economic and developmental lift the museum would give to the New York region. This sentiment was echoed by Robert J. Rodriguez, President and CEO of DASNY, who noted DASNY's pride in administering the capital grant funding that bolstered this ambitious project. State and local officials, including State Senator Joseph Griffo and Utica Mayor Michael Galime, have also lauded the project as a heartwarming demonstration of community investment in youth and family development, as per the Governor's Office.
With the official dedication of the museum and community excitement mounting, Utica now houses a testament to the power of play and education. This new facility serves not only as a fun destination for families but as a cornerstone in the city's commitment to fostering learning and growth from crib through career—as Assemblymember Marianne Buttenschon highlighted, assembling further support with an additional $125,000 secured in funding through the FY 2024 Executive Budget. For Oneida County, represented by Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr., the museum is a significant stride forward, "offering opportunities for school readiness, career exploration, and meaningful family engagement," as noted by the Governor's Office announcement.
