Keystone Today

The Da Vinci Science Center will be expanding, with Gov. Tom Wolf announcing that an $11 million state investment will be made to create a second location to serve a variety of purposes in science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics (STEAM) learning.

Wolf met with Allentown officials on April 22 to discuss the investment that is through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP), according to a release. It will help create opportunities for hands-on learning for STEAM. The new science center will be 67,300 square feet and involves 30,000 square feet of STEM-based interactive exhibits, an 8,600 square foot STEAM learning center, a 150-seat demonstration theater, a courtyard and an exhibit space.

“The Da Vinci Science Center has long been an innovative hub where children of all ages could experience hands-on STEM learning,” said Wolf. “This investment in the center’s expansion is an investment in a bright future for every child who walks through the door and the local economy alike.”

During Wolf’s time in office, 38 Lehigh County projects have received $58.5 million in funds through RACP. Funds provided by RACP are intended to support expansion projects, create jobs, train employees and revitalize the community.

“The Da Vinci Science Center is grateful for the generous support from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to make our new facility in downtown Allentown a reality,” said Lin Erickson, executive director and CEO of Da Vinci Science Center. “This project would not be possible without the support of Governor Wolf and the Lehigh Valley delegation and will ensure that Da Vinci Science Center is poised to inspire our students today to be the STEAM workforce of tomorrow.”

According to the Da Vinci Science Center website, it began back in 1992 when Lehigh University created the Science Model Area Resource Team (SMART). It became an independent non-profit in 1999, moving to its current facility in Allentown in 2005.

More information can be found at davincisciencecenter.org.