Jonesboro awarded grant to study feasibility of children’s museum

The city of Jonesboro was awarded a $15,000 grant from the Arkansas Tourism Attraction Feasibility Study Matching Grant Program. The grant will be used to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study for the proposed Northeast Arkansas Children’s Museum.

Roto, an interdisciplinary creative design agency, will study the viability of creating the museum. The study will explore various factors essential to the success of the project, including market area analysis, demographic trends, estimated attendance by tourists, economic impact, and the overall financial sustainability of the museum.

Market area information, tourists estimates, costs for the project, an analysis of the economic impact to the Jonesboro metro area and other indicators will be studied.

“This feasibility study is a significant step toward making the Northeast Arkansas Children’s Museum a reality. It will provide us with the insights and data needed to ensure that the museum not only meets the needs of our community but also becomes a sustainable and thriving attraction for years to come,” Jonesboro Mayor Harold Copenhaver said.

The process will involve the coordination and facilitation of virtual and in-person workshops, public meetings, and listening sessions to gather community input. The creative stage of the study will focus on site selection, architectural design, and space planning for the future museum.

Final documentation will provide a detailed plan, including cost estimates and a capital campaign strategy. The feasibility study is expected to be completed by December 25, with a comprehensive plan in place to guide future fundraising efforts and stakeholder engagement.

Within 30 days of the study’s completion, the city will submit the necessary documentation to Arkansas Tourism to receive the matching grant funds.