News

04.18.2007

Science Fiction No More!
New Connecticut Science Center Celebrates as
First Steel Beam is Hoisted into Place

Community Encouraged to Get Involved:
Sign Steel Beam, Watch Live Web Cam

HARTFORD, CT – (April 18, 2007) – Today the Connecticut Science Center celebrated a historic construction milestone as the building’s first steel beam was hoisted into place. The nearly 4 ton beam was followed by another 20 beams on the first day alone. In all, nearly 3,000 tons of steel will form the superstructure of the 144,000 square foot signature building designed by world renowned architect Cesar Pelli.

“With the 3-story, 500-car parking garage nearing completion, it is now that the Science Center itself truly begins to be built,” said Dr. Theodore S. Sergi, president and CEO of the Science Center. “Today we’re proving that a state-wide science learning destination is science fiction no more!”

Community Invited to Sign Beam April 26 & 27
The public is invited to become part of the new Science Center at a beam-signing event on Thursday and Friday, April 26th and 27th from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The events will take place on Mortensen Riverfront Plaza, which is adjacent to the Science Center construction site in downtown Hartford. In early May, the 700-pound signed steel beam will be added to the Science Center’s steel superstructure.

The April 26th event coincides with National Bring Your Son & Daughter to Work Day and will include make-and-take architecture and science activities for kids. On Friday, April 27, the University of Hartford Steel Drum band will perform at noon; those who work in downtown Hartford are encouraged to bring their lunch. The event is free, open to the public and will be held rain or shine (the event is tented).

About the Connecticut Science Center
The Connecticut Science Center, now under construction at Adriaen’s Landing in Hartford, will spark creative imagination and an appreciation for science by immersing visitors in fun and educational hands-on, interactive experiences. Visitors will experience 200 exhibits in 10 galleries and a range of topics, including space and earth sciences, physical sciences, biology, the Connecticut watershed, Connecticut inventors and innovations, a children’s gallery, and much more. Other visitor amenities include four educational labs, a 200-seat 3D digital cinema, function room, gift store and café, and ongoing events and lectures for all ages. The Center is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing science education throughout the state of Connecticut, providing learning opportunities for students and adults of all ages, and engaging the community in scientific exploration.

	The first piece of steel arrives. Click to download.
	The Connecticut Science Center’s first steel beam is hoisted into place and marks the newest addition to the Adriaen’s Landing project. Click to download.
	Construction workers secure the first steel beam of the Connecticut Science Center. In all, a total of 3,000 tons of steel will be installed by the end of this summer.  Click to download.
	The first steel beam of the Connecticut Science Center is secured at the future site of the Center’s café. Click to download.