FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Springfield, MO. (April 13, 2023) – Governor Mike Parson announced today that the Springfield Art Museum is the recipient of $2,752,750 from the Local Tourism Asset Development American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Grant Program. This program awarded $30 million statewide. The Museum was awarded 20% of the $14 million in funds allocated to support institutions in Category 2 (County Tourism Levels 6-8) which includes both St. Louis and Kansas City. The Museum’s grant was the highest grant amount awarded, shared with just two other projects in the state, the Gateway Arch Park Foundation’s Old Courthouse renovation and the Greater Lake of the Ozarks CVB Field Expansion.
This grant program supports public/private partnerships intended to further the statewide recovery of the tourism, travel, and hospitality industries from the negative economic impacts of COVID-19. Eligible activities include both capital improvements and upgrades, as well as capital building projects whose planning, development, or construction were delayed due to the pandemic.
“We’re so excited and appreciative of the Missouri Department of Economic Development and Governor Parson for this crucial funding, but also for recognizing the importance of the Springfield Art Museum’s renovations and expansion for our local tourism economy,” said Museum Director Nick Nelson. “The Museum welcomes thousands of visitors from across the region and across the country adding much value to our local economy. These visitors have a significant impact as cultural tourists - who studies show stay longer and spend more per visit than other travelers - spending on average 60% more than other travelers. We are excited to continue making our community a great place to live and a great place to visit.”
Since kicking off the 2028 Campaign in October of 2021, the Museum has raised nearly $16 million toward this transformative capital project which has already substantially improved the Museum’s grounds and parking. The Fassnight Creek Naturalization Project, an important part of that grounds work and a flood mitigation necessity, was named 2022 Project of the Year by the Missouri Chapter of the American Public Works Association (APWA). The Museum is in the final stages of selecting a firm to provide architectural services.
Potential donors who are interested in learning more about the 2028 Campaign, including how their gift can qualify for tax credits from the Missouri Development Finance Board (MDFB), should contact Kate Francis, Museum Affairs Officer for Fundraising and Development at 417-874-2865 or kate.francis@springfieldmo.gov. The Springfield Art Museum is located at 1111 East Brookside Drive. Admission is always free. Donations are gratefully accepted.
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The Springfield Art Museum is Springfield, Missouri’s oldest cultural institution, founded in 1928. A department of the City of Springfield, the Museum invites you to connect with the world, your community, and yourself through active engagement with art objects. For more information about the Museum’s 2028 Campaign, please visit www.sgfmuseum.org/258/Museum-Master-Plan. Media inquiries to Joshua Best, Museum Affairs Officer for Audience Development at jbest@springfieldmo.gov or (417) 874-2859.