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Building Owners & Managers Association of Buffalo Selected Explore & More as Project of the Year
Erie Canal Harbor Development Corp. and Explore & More – The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Children's Museum announce the museum, located at Canalside, has been selected as the Building Owners & Managers Association (BOMA) of Buffalo 2019 Project of the Year.
This prestigious award is bestowed upon one building per year following an extensive review and an on-site visit from BOMA judges. BOMA is the leading trade association for commercial real estate professionals, supporting companies that help grow the Buffalo Region by developing or renovating commercial buildings, creating jobs and servicing their tenants.
“Receiving this distinction from the esteemed members of BOMA is a testament to the exceptional design and engaging exhibits at the new Explore & More museum,” said Robert Gioia, ECHDC chairman. “The museum has become a vibrant magnet for visitors to Canalside, adding to the overall resurgence of the waterfront and the Queen City.”
Explore & More CEO Michelle Urbanczyk said, “We are thrilled to receive the Project of the Year award. This collaboration between ECHDC and Explore & More – The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Children’s Museum tells the story of Western New York through immersive and hands-on exhibits. The designers, fabricators, contractors and architects work is highlighted both inside and outside the museum. We are extremely proud of the outcome.”
“BOMA is proud to honor Explore & More museum with the 2019 Project of The Year Award,” Executive Director Jennifer Aiple said. “This development represents dynamic collaboration between public and private entities. It is obvious how much careful thought went into how it would fit into the landscape of Canalside, and how the diverse exhibits represent so many aspects of what Buffalo stands for. It is truly a destination for local residents and families visiting Buffalo.”
Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo announced the completion of construction and dedication of the new $29 million Explore & More – The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Children's Museum at Canalside in May. The 43,000-square-foot stand-alone building houses seven educational play zones, each offering hands-on activities and exhibits that tell the stories of Buffalo for children and families.
Located at the corner of Commercial Street and Marine Drive, the museum was built on the terminus of the original Erie Canal, where replica canals and bridges have become year-round family and tourist destinations.
Credit for the collaborative design of the museum goes to Fontense, Folts, Aubrecht & Ernst Architects, Foit-Albert Associates and Gyroscope. LeChase Construction constructed the core and shell of the building; Savarino Construction built out the interior of the museum.
In addition to the play zones, the four-story brick museum houses a family-friendly café and party room overlooking the Canal Towpath, along with a Buffalo themed gift shop, private office space, a conference room, several additional exhibit spaces, activity studios and a rooftop terrace offering magnificent views of the city skyline.
More information about Explore & More – The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Children's Museum can be found at exploreandmore.org.
Learn more about BOMA at www.boma.org.