Lewis Army Museum's $9.6 Million Worth of Renovations Complete

(Editor's note: This is from Joint Base Lewis-McChord)

After more than two years and $9.6 million, the renovations of the Lewis Army Museum are complete and ready for a limited reopening. JBLM officials will mark the occasion with a ribbon cutting ceremony Tuesday, Feb. 21, at 2 p.m. on the museum’s front porch.

Following the limited opening ceremony the museum will be open to the public on Thursdays from noon to 4 p.m. and for scheduled tour groups Monday through Friday. During the limited opening visitors will have access to:

-       Gallery A – Soldiers of the Northwest

-       Gallery L – Main Lobby

-       Friends of the Museum Store

-       Research Archives (by appointment)

The museum closed for renovation November 16, 2009, but before renovations could begin the museum’s collection of more than 4,600 irreplaceable cataloged artifacts and over 200 weapons were packed and placed in storage. This process took a combined effort by 30 government employees, contractors, and volunteers five weeks to complete.

In addition to hosting the museum, this historic building now also houses a 15,000 square foot state-of-the-art training facility on the once vacant third floor. The addition of these training rooms have helped the installation alleviate a shortage of classroom space on base.

The renovation project contract was completed by Wade Perrow Construction of Gig Harbor.