Rendering of the updated Bronx Museum. Image Credit: NYCEDC.
On July 11, 2024, the New York City Economic Development Corporation, in collaboration with the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs and the Department of Citywide Administrative Services announced the renovation of The Bronx Museum located at 165th Street and Grand Concourse.
Museum renovations will include creating a continuous gallery loop through the museum’s multiple buildings, large street-facing displays for rotating installations, a spacious lobby with a seating area, additional exhibition space, a new main entrance, and new triple-height windows. To enhance the experience of visitors, a food vendor will be procured.
The reconstruction of the museum is part of the 80×50 program led by the New York City Economic Development Corporation and the Department of Citywide Administrative Services. The goal of the 80×50 program is to make buildings and vehicles energy efficient in response to climate changes. The renovations will be spearheaded by the architect company MARVEL. The new interior will provide museum goers a route through all the galleries. While the exterior will have folded copper bronze panels that embodies architecture of the Special Grand Concourse District.
While construction is underway, the northern gallery spaces will be open to the public to view exhibitions and attend events. The renovation of the museum is anticipated to be completed by 2026. This project is expected to cost the city $33 million.
New York City Economic Development Corporation President & CEO Andrew Kimball said, “The renovation of the Bronx Museum will transform a cultural icon of the Bronx into a modern institution that will result in additional space for contemporary art exhibitions and a unified campus for all New Yorkers to enjoy. NYCEDC is thrilled to have partnered with DCLA, DCAS, and our development partners to bring this renovation in the historic Grand Concourse District to life and looks forward to the building’s opening in 2026.”
Executive Director of The Bronx Museum Klaudio Rodriguez said, “This renovation marks a transformative moment for The Bronx Museum, creating a world-class cultural anchor the people of The Bronx deserve. With an improved entry experience and more spacious and accessible lobby, a seamless interior layout, and new exhibition and programming spaces, Marvel’s visionary design is rooted in careful consideration of our mission, commitment to free access, and the dynamic communities we serve.”
Cultural Affairs Commissioner Laurie Cumbo said, “The Bronx Museum is a cutting-edge cultural institution located in one of the most vibrant creative communities in the world, and this renovation will give it the facility it deserves to fulfill its mission of bringing artists and audiences together.
By: Chelsea Ramjeawan (Chelsea is the CityLaw intern and a New York Law School student, Class of 2025.)