NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release 2008TTED0052-001839 Dec. 8, 2008	Ministry of Technology, Trade and Economic Development
GOVERNMENT PROVIDES $10.5M FOR SCIENCE WORLD BC RENEWAL

VANCOUVER – A $10.5-million investment by the Province will help Science World BC undergo much-needed upgrades and develop an outdoor science park, Ida Chong, Minister of Technology, Trade and Economic Development, announced today.  

 

            “Science World BC plays an important educational role in our communities, and it is a symbol of British Columbia’s leadership in science, technology and innovation,” Chong said. “This funding will help ensure Science World can continue to spread enthusiasm for science and technology to children and adults around the province.”

 

Science World BC opened in 1989 and attracts more than 525,000 visitors annually. The building, erected for Expo 86, was not designed or built for permanent operations. The facility needs upgrades to its building systems, including envelope, foundations and structure, to remain usable on an ongoing basis.

 

“We are proud of our efforts to inspire a science and technology culture in British Columbia, and this funding will help protect our unique iconic building,” said Bryan Tisdall, president and CEO of Science World. “We are really looking forward to creating our outdoor science park. It’s going to make learning about environmental sustainability exciting and meaningful for our visitors – and it will include our trademark engaging and hands-on approach to discovering science.”

Science World aims to use the 7,803-square-metre park to explore themes of science and sustainability – such as clean energy, earth science and water stewardship – making them relevant and meaningful for the community. 

 

In addition to its programs in Vancouver, Science World BC also offers a variety of outreach programs that bring science into classrooms and communities, addressing everything from climate change and environmental action to the human body. These programs reach more than 180,000 children, educators and parents throughout the province.

-30-

Media contact:	Gordon Williams Communications Director 250 952-0152 250 413-7316 (cell)
For more information on government services or to subscribe to the Province’s news feeds using RSS, visit the Province’s website at www.gov.bc.ca.