JANESVILLE — Construction on the Children’s Museum of Rock County project is proceeding on schedule since the groundbreaking in early June, museum officials said today.
To date, the 1950s addition on the property has been razed, hazardous material abatement in the historic building is complete, and restoration work is continuing, according to a news release.
JP Cullen has brought a 160-foot crawler crane to the construction site, signaling the start of construction on the new addition.
“Over the next couple of months, crews will soon begin forming and pouring concrete footings and foundations for the new building addition,” said Kent Anderson, CMRC Executive Director. “After these are poured, the crane will be used to start setting structural steel when it arrives in November. Steel erection will take about a month to complete, then crews will move right into putting up the walls of the new addition.”
The CMRC has also engaged with two exhibit fabricators, Boss Display and Dimensional Innovations. The companies will design, fabricate, and install severaleral interactive experiences set to be featured in the future children’s museum. Exhibit designs should be finalized within the next 30 days.
The Let’s PLAY Together Capital Campaign officially ended on August 31, with over $14.5 million in pledges and donations. Museum officials state that efforts will now switch to annual operations fundraising for the non-profit.
“Achieving our mission takes more than creativity and care – it requires consistent operational support that only generous community support can provide,” said Anderson. “Especially now, every gift fuels the daily work that will keep our exhibits vibrant, our programs accessible, and our doors open to families from all backgrounds. We invite everyone who believes in building a brighter future for our children to invest in the joy and learning made possible at the museum, because every child’s curiosity deserves a strong and sustainable foundation.”
At this time, construction of the museum is proceeding as scheduled. Anderson stated that he expects the children’s museum to open in late 2026. Those interested in learning more about the project and donating can visit kidsatplayrc.com.