The powerhouse will complete the planning phase of their backyard redesign, transforming the museum's 7,000-square-foot backyard into a safe, enclosed outdoor learning environment that nearly…

The Institute of Museum and Library Services awarded The Powerhouse in Durango, Colorado $132,158 on September 1, 2026, under the Museums for America program (CFDA 45.301) to complete the planning phase of a backyard redesign project.

The Powerhouse will transform its 7,000-square-foot backyard into a safe, enclosed outdoor learning environment that nearly doubles the museum's usable exhibit space. Project activities include hiring a qualified design firm through a competitive process, engaging a civil engineer to conduct a topographic survey and develop a drainage plan, conducting community outreach and engagement sessions, and reviewing iterative design concepts. These steps will culminate in a comprehensive, community-informed backyard design to guide future fundraising and development. The project takes advantage of Southern Colorado's mild climate to enable hands-on outdoor learning nearly year-round. The primary audience is children aged two to ten and their families.

The period of performance runs from September 1, 2026, through August 31, 2027. Place of performance is Durango, Colorado.

The powerhouse will complete the planning phase of their backyard redesign, transforming the museum's 7,000-square-foot backyard into a safe, enclosed outdoor learning environment that nearly doubles their usable exhibit space. Expanding into the backyard provides the best opportunity to meet growing visitor demand while delivering high-quality, engaging, and enriching experiences. Its design also takes advantage of southern colorado's mild climate, enabling hands-on outdoor learning nearly year-round. Project activities include hiring a qualified design firm through a competitive process, securing a civil engineer to conduct a topographic survey and develop a drainage plan, conducting community outreach and engagement sessions, and reviewing iterative design concepts. These steps will culminate in a comprehensive, community-informed backyard design that can guide future fundraising and development. The primary audience is children aged two to ten and their families, who will benefit directly from a developmentally appropriate, safe, and interactive outdoor learning space.