Allentown officials, Governor break ground on Da Vinci Science Center

Governor Tom Wolf today joined Allentown area officials to celebrate the groundbreaking of the $65 million Da Vinci Science Center in the city’s Neighborhood Investment Zone downtown. 

The state has made an $11 million state investment, through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP), to expand the Da Vinci Science Center’s footprint with this second location to provide even more opportunities for hands-on science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics (STEAM) learning.  

“The Da Vinci Science Center has long been an innovative hub where children of all ages could experience hands-on STEAM learning,” said Gov. 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.” 

Plans are to construct a 67,300-square-foot new science center which will be home to more than 30,000 square feet of STEM-based interactive exhibits, an 8,600 square-foot STEAM Learning Center, a 150-seat demonstration theater, a grand courtyard and exhibit space.  

“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.”  

Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program funds support critical expansion projects, provide opportunities for job creation and employment training, and community revitalization across the commonwealth. 

The Science Center will be located on Hamilton Street between 8th and 9th streets.