Science Zone to get new look courtesy of Rocky Mountain Power Foundation grant

Science Zone to get new look courtesy of Rocky Mountain Power Foundation grant

A recent generous grant from the Rocky Mountain Power Foundation will help the Science Zone change the way it looks with some remodeling and the addition of permanent fixtures at the museum’s building, 222 East Collins Drive, in Casper..

The $3,500 grant will help support The Science Zone with the installation of permanent classroom facilities, as well as installing modern LED lighting to replace the current fluorescent lighting that date back to the building’s time as a Safeway grocery store in the 1980s. The Science Zone is using the Rocky Mountain Power Foundation grant in conjunction with design services from MOA Architecture and Sinclair Refinery in the effort.

Museum Executive Director Steven Schnell recently shared a history of the current building with reporters from the Casper Star-Tribune, and how the space has evolved since they first moved in during the latter-half of a COVID-pandemic-struck 2021. According to Schnell, the museum has been in a constant state of evolution, as they find new and more efficient ways providing science education opportunities to the community.

“It’s something that the community can be proud of,” Schnell told the Star-Tribune about the museum. “It’s something that can be a resource for the community.”

In the months to come visitors can look forward to the installation of classroom facilities with permanent walls. Previously, the classroom area was separated from the main museum floor by means of red curtains, but Schnell says the days of curtained walls are numbered. The enclosed classroom areas will help support the recently launched Coding @ The Zone curriculum, giving Casper youngsters a quiet environment to work and learn.

In addition, plans are also underway to add 250 square feet to the overall exhibit space and remodel the museum’s restrooms. Finally, the space will be illuminated by upgraded energy-efficient LED lights.

As reported in the Casper Star-Tribune article, the Rocky Mountain Power Foundation grant is part of the company’s BlueSky Community Project. Funding for the project, according to RMP’s website, “comes from customers participating in the Blue Sky program and is available to help cover the capital costs of installing new renewable energy systems for non-residential, community-serving sites within Rocky Mountain Power's service area.”

The grant was received in 2023 and work has already begun remodeling the Science Zone restrooms. Further changes can be expected in the months to come.

The Science Zone has, and continues to, express deep gratitude to the Rocky Mountain Power Foundation, MOA Architecture, and Sinclair Oil as well as our other visitors, donors, and supporters for continuing to help The Science Zone inspire curiosity in everyone.