The Air Zoo Aerospace and Science Center in Kalamazoo, Michigan, has engaged experience planning and design firm PGAV Destinations to develop a strategic vision and master plan. The plan builds on the Air Zoo’s momentum by laying the foundation for significant capital improvement projects designed to elevate the visitor experience and chart a course for sustainable growth, aiming to strengthen the Air Zoo’s role in the community for years to come. The planning process includes community engagement, market analysis, interpretive planning, business planning, and strategic development of new science, technology, engineering, art, and math experiences. The plan will set a course for the Air Zoo to fulfill its mission to make a positive impact locally, regionally, and nationally with connections that inspire and support financial sustainability.
“We are thrilled to embark on this journey with PGAV to shape the future of the Air Zoo,” said Troy Thrash, Air Zoo President & CEO. “This collaboration will help us build on our mission and community impact. We will ignite curiosity and inspire our visitors with experiences that leave a lasting impression.”
“Innovation is in the Air Zoo DNA,” said Tom Owen, PGAV Vice President. “Working with the Air Zoo team allows our team to push the boundaries and redefine what a museum and science experience can be.”
The completed plan will create a roadmap for a phased implementation of multiple expansion and improvement projects on the 50-acre campus adjacent to the Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport. Scheduled for completion in 2025, the master plan will subsequently guide a strategic, multi-year implementation process.
About the Air Zoo The Air Zoo is an internationally acclaimed Smithsonian-affiliated aerospace and science center, boasting a renowned collection of over 100 rare and historically significant aircraft and more than 100,000 unique artifacts, displays, and exhibits showcasing history, science, and technology. It is a destination perfect for the whole family with flight simulators, a theater, amusement rides, hands-on exhibits, a restoration program that specializes in WWII planes rescued from the bottom of Lake Michigan, and a one-of-a-kind indoor, hand-painted mural that reaches 32 feet tall and 800 feet wide!
About PGAV Destinations PGAV Destinations is a global leader in the planning and design of unique destinations. Now entering its sixth decade, the practice has evolved to become the ideal destination-consulting partner, skilled at developing growth-oriented master plans and translating those plans into successful projects. Clients of PGAV Destinations include the Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum, Fort Ticonderoga, Museum of Ohio, National Air & Space Museum, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex & Space Shuttle Atlantis, Virginia Air & Space Science Center, and many more.
