Greenfield Village announced an unprecedented collaboration with AUC-Michigan’s Heavy Construction Association in an effort to upgrade the outdoor museum’s 73-year-old infrastructure. The association has donated time, effort and engineering to this underground project that will help "save America’s Hometown."
"The members of AUC recognize their civic duty as it pertains to the renovation of the supporting infrastructure at Greenfield Village," said AUC Executive Director Bob Patzer. "We feel an obligation to help preserve and perpetuate this national treasure by offering our expertise and assistance in this rebuilding program."
Although Henry Ford Museum will remain open, Greenfield Village will begin its infrastructure upgrade this September and will be closed through May 2003. However, this summer’s Hometown Celebration in the village will go on as scheduled with a brand-new daily vaudeville variety show, the new Sounds of America gallery, and an exciting baseball schedule featuring the Lah-De-Dahs.
Weather, pedestrian traffic and the passage of time have impacted the village’s support infrastructure. From insufficient gas lines to antiquated electrical service, Greenfield Village, one of America’s most well-known National Historic Landmarks, is in dire need of an updated underground support system to meet the demands of being one of the most visited history attractions in America.
Initially, the cost of the Greenfield Village infrastructure replacement project was estimated at $25 million. AUC has been contributing time and expertise in working with the village and its design team to identify cost savings. Through AUC’s recommendations, the total project cost is now estimated to be $15 million.
During Greenfield Village’s restoration project, Henry Ford Museum will entertain and educate visitors with new programming including "Fall in America," and our holiday program, "Holiday Express," while an exciting announcement regarding this December’s holiday feature at the museum’s IMAX Theatre is in the works.
