TRUCKEE, Calif. – KidZone Museum is preparing to break ground this spring on its new permanent home, marking a major milestone in the community’s vision for a permanent children’s museum in Truckee.

Thanks to a transformative multi-million-dollar gift from an anonymous donor, phase 1 construction is now funded and shovel-ready. With a building permit in hand from the Town of Truckee and construction funding secured, the project is moving forward with strong community momentum.

“We are grateful that in 2021, the Truckee Donner Recreation and Park District kickstarted our campaign by voting to lease nearly two acres at Truckee River Regional Park to KidZone Museum,” said Carol Meagher, executive director. “We also want to thank all our campaign donors for believing in this vision and backing it with extraordinary generosity. Their support transformed an idea into a building that will serve families for generations.”

This spring, the two-phase project begins with phase 1: construction of a 6,500-square-foot museum and science center and a 9,000-square-foot outdoor space. Together, these spaces will create a dynamic environment where children can explore science, nature, art, and imaginative play in new and expanded ways.

With construction soon underway, the focus now turns toward bringing the building fully to life. The museum is continuing to raise funds for innovative hands-on exhibits, climbable structures, immersive play environments, and creative maker spaces designed to spark curiosity and fuel discovery. Additional support will also help prepare the museum for opening, including installation of exhibits, operational readiness, and the transition into the new space. This next chapter will ensure that the physical structure becomes a vibrant, interactive experience for families throughout the region.

“We’ve worked hard to get to this point,” said Shana L. Wapstra Scott, KidZone Museum Capital Campaign Committee chairperson. “Now we have the opportunity to shape a space filled with movement, imagination, and meaningful experiences for the children and families we serve. This is where the energy of the community truly comes alive.”

For more information, visit https://kidzonemuseum.org/.