Construction is underway on a long-awaited project aiming to improve access to a pair of neighboring arts and cultural institutions in Auburn. The $4.7 million West End Arts Campus will strengthen the connection between Schweinfurth Art Center and the Cayuga Museum of History.
It was five years ago when the city of auburn first earmarked nearly $2 million toward building the West End Arts Campus. Now, it’s finally becoming a reality. Cayuga Museum Executive Director Kirsten Gosch says it's almost like a dream.
“It still feels like it's kind of too good to be true because it has been so long," Gosch said. "So I will feel better once the shovels are really in the ground."
Schweinfurth Executive Director Donna Lamb echoed that sentiment.
"It's definitely exciting, but it's also it's almost hard to believe we're finally here, ready to start the project," Lamb said.
The project will include additional parking, walkways, lighting, and landscaping. Lamb says the main goal is improving access.
“People who've come here before and have had to walk up our icy driveway to come into the front door, or people who've tried to get from the Schweinfurth to the Cayuga Museum or to the Carriage House have had to walk between buildings over lumpy lawn," Lamb said. “The whole thing is designed to make it possible for us to collaborate with each other so we can offer art, history, culture, science, all in one location. So it's a one-stop experience for visitors.”
But, in the meantime, visitors can expect some closures at both institutions during construction. The project is expected to be completed by March.
The exhibition galleries at the Schweinfurth are closed until August 31, but the classes, art camps, offices, and gift shops will remain open.
The Cayuga Museum is closed, but on June 1, a temporary space will open downtown at 144 Genesee St. with exhibits, children's art area, gift shop, and host programs.
