Vancouver's Telus World of Science has launched its $35-million construction project that began today and is expected to last for a year.
Construction on the facility will include tearing down and rebuilding the platform on which the building's geodesic dome sits.
"The building came during the leaky condo era so we're going to be fixing roof leaks, wall leaks," said Kevin Kearns, vice president of Science World's facility development.
Kearns says Vancouverites and science centre visitors can also expect a brand new look for the platform.
"We hope to keep the long iconic view that Science World provides to our city's landscape but make [the building] more welcoming as you get closer," Kearns said.
Other changes include a redesign to the glass canopy that hangs on the east side of the building and an expansion to the building's west side above the White Spot restaurant.
The project also includes a $3-million plan to make the building more environmentally friendly and energy efficient.
Science World received $10.5-million from the provincial and federal government but still needs another $10-million to carry out its plans.
Kearns said they are reaching out to community partners and are leaning on donations to make the construction plans possible.
"Science World BC inspires students to learn more about their world," says Iain Black, minister of small business, technology and economic development. "We look forward to seeing more children engage in science through this enhanced learning environment for kids and adults."
As a condition of the provided government funding, the project must be completed by the end of March 2011.
Some of the initial construction work, such as renovating washrooms, will begin immediately, while the platform design and west wing extension will be developed as the project moves forward.
"Science World is an important and valuable cultural institution serving Vancouverites and visitors to our city, offering tremendous opportunities for exploring science in engaging and creative ways," said Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson.
An upcoming public consultation will allow visitors to see what the future Science World will look like.
"We have big ideas for what we'd like to see happen," Science World President Bryan Tisdall said in a release. "But we want to make sure we communicate our vision with our neighbours and community and give everyone a chance to tell us their thoughts."
The date for the consultation is still being finalized.
While construction is in progress, visitors can expect to see some changes as Science World builds a hoarding wall surrounding the building.
Science World will not be closing down during its renovations, as Kearns explains they are primarily going to be under construction on the outside of the building.
"As of yet we're planning on staying open but there might be a change of plan depending on the extent of the construction," he said.
To donate to the Science World construction project supporters can email giving@scienceworld.ca or call 604-443-7483.
