CHICAGO – State Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago) congratulated several museums in the 13th Senate District on receiving grants from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources earlier this week, part of a push to ensure these important local resources stay afloat during the ongoing pandemic.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has put an economic strain on a lot of us, and museums are no exception,” Peters said. “These institutions are some of the most important cultural and educational centers of community, and it’s great to hear they’ll be getting funding that will ease a financial burden and allow them to make some improvements.”

In total, five museums in Peters’ district will receive over $3.2 million in grants for various projects. The museums and projects are:

• The Chicago Children’s Museum, which will receive $616,400 for improvements to its Water City exhibit;
• The Field Museum of Natural History, which will receive $750,000 for HVAC upgrades;
• The Museum of Contemporary Art, which will receive $375,000 for pedestrian surface upgrades;
• The Museum of Science and Industry, which will receive $750,000 for air handler replacement, and;
• The Shedd Aquarium, which will receive $750,000 for renovation of its north terrace.

“The grants will provide these museums with an opportunity to improve the experience for all visitors as we await the day when it is safe for us to enjoy them again,” Peters said.

More information about the museum grant program can be found here.