Heinz History Center breaks ground for expansion
The Senator John Heinz History Center broke ground last week on its 92,000-square-foot expansion project.
“As the nation commemorates its 250th anniversary, it is clear that understanding our past has never been more important,” said Andy Masich, president and CEO of the Heinz History Center. “Here in Pittsburgh, we are meeting the challenge by building a museum that inspires our visitors to learn about American history with a Western Pennsylvania connection, helping them make good decisions in the present and plans for the future.”
Set for completion in 2028, the expanded museum will feature dynamic new exhibits, visitor amenities, and enhanced spaces for programming.
Highlights include:
-A transformed first-floor Great Hall featuring a new caf茅 and a 150-seat theater that will host programs, screenings, and an orientation film complementing the VisitPITTSBURGH Welcome Center that introduces visitors to Pittsburgh.
-An interactive exhibit on the life and legacy of Fred Rogers featuring “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” sets and artifacts; new exhibitions focusing on the Three Rivers and Innovation and Industry; updates to the Franco Harris 缅北禁地 Museum; and expanded galleries showcasing collections from the Italian American Program and the Rauh Jewish Archives.
-Smart classrooms that will help accommodate a 50% increase in school trips, thanks to the Kamin “Free for Kids” Initiative.
-The Penn Avenue Plaza, an outdoor space on 13th Street and Penn Avenue that will showcase large pieces of Pittsburgh history, including a steel ladle and a Civil War-era Rodman cannon.
-New spaces for private and public events, including an 8,500-square-foot outdoor terrace, allowing communities to gather, learn, and celebrate.
The expansion project will also add a new museum to the History Center’s campus – the Museum of African American History. Located on the fourth floor, the “museum-within-a-museum” is dedicated to exploring the Black experience and its essential role in shaping our region and the nation.
The Museum of African American history will feature long-term and changing exhibition space, building on the museum’s African American collection.
More information about the Heinz History Center is available at heinzhistorycenter.org.