Jacksonville, FL — The Museum of Science and History is one step closer to moving to a new site on Jacksonville’s Northbank.
The Downtown Investment Authority has approved a plan that clears 2.5 acres of land for the new building, as well as a 1.5-acre “Partnership Parcel” that will include park space and public access to the Riverwalk.
The new site is located on the east side of the Shipyards, near the Sports Complex.
In a news release, MOSH CEO Bruce Fafard said, “This development is an important step forward in our efforts to deliver a dynamic, iconic and innovative new MOSH at the Shipyards. Our discussions with the DIA over the past several months have resulted in a resolution that paves the way for an iconic addition to the Northbank skyline. Together with our architecture and design partners, we look forward to finalizing the lease as soon as possible.”
The news release said the museum’s operations have outgrown its current building on the Southbank, where it has been located since 1969.
It said a preliminary project analysis showed a new, larger museum would increase the museum’s operating budget to $8 million and create 78 new jobs.
MOSH plans to enter a ground lease with the City of Jacksonville for $1 per year. The DIA will present the lease to the City Council in the coming months. In the interim, MOSH will continue the design process and present a full site plan to the DIA for review by Sept. 30, 2022.