LONGMONT, Colo. – The Longmont Museum has announced an $8.1 million capital campaign to fund an expansion of the building and grounds. Primary goals of the project include building a dedicated children’s gallery for hands-on, year-round learning and play; expanding the primary gallery to feature more robust touring exhibits as well as local artists and historic collections; renovating the outdoor courtyard including the construction of a new stage; and increasing office and support spaces.

The campaign will kick off with a groundbreaking event on Friday, Sept. 15 from 10 – 11 a.m. The free event, held in the Museum’s outdoor courtyard, will share renderings, project details and remarks from City of Longmont Mayor Joan Peck and Museum Director Erik Mason, as well as from chairs and supporters of the campaign. Light refreshments will be served, and no RSVP is needed to attend.

The campaign launch follows multiple years of program growth, evaluation and community conversations about needs and priorities for the cultural facility. “The expansion is about more than bricks and mortar,” said Mason, “It’s about making the Museum more responsive to our community.”

Fundraising for the expansion is already off to a strong start with a $5 million pledge from the Stewart Family Foundation, $1 million of which has already been donated. During her lifetime, local business leader and longtime Museum benefactor Lila Jean Stewart was also instrumental in the construction of the Museum’s 250-seat Stewart Auditorium. Following her death in 2018, the Stewart Family Foundation continues to honor the priorities of Lila, as well as her husband Bill and daughter Linda.

“We are humbled to see Lila’s commitment to the Museum continue through this donation,” said Mason. “Her memory will very much live on through the expanded programs and exhibitions we will be able to present to the community thanks to her gift.”

“Our many additional generous supporters will be instrumental in helping us raise the remaining funds to make an expanded Longmont Museum a reality,” Mason said. “We are excited to share opportunities for naming rights, planned giving and more with both individuals and businesses.”

Permitting for the initial phases of the expansion is currently underway, and the first big changes will begin to be visible in the Museum’s courtyard starting this winter. The full expansion is expected to be complete by early 2026.

To learn more about the campaign or get involved, visit supportlongmontmuseum.org.

LONGMONT MUSEUM
The Longmont Museum is a center for culture in Northern Colorado where people of all ages explore history, experience art, and discover new ideas through dynamic programs, exhibitions, and events. Regional history, internationally-known artists, and hands-on learning are all part of the mix of exhibitions at the Longmont Museum. Permanent exhibits document the 14,000 years of human history in Longmont and the people who helped to create this community. Special exhibits in the Museum’s main gallery, Portal Gallery, and Swan Atrium change several times a year. Learn more at www.longmontmuseum.org or visit us at 400 Quail Road, Longmont CO 80501.

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