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International Museum of Art & Science asks McAllen for $912,000 to advance $35 million 'Campaign for Children'
Summary
IMAS leaders told the McAllen City Commission workshop the museum served more than 51,000 visitors last year, that 45% of visitors come from McAllen ZIP codes, and requested $912,000 from the city to complete critical architectural work on a planned expansion tied to a $35 million campaign.
Anne Fortescue, executive director of the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS), asked the McAllen City Commission workshop for continued municipal support for the museum's "Campaign for Children," saying the project will transform the museum into a full‑day regional attraction and expand exhibit and educational space.
"We now no longer have enough space to serve our growing community," Fortescue said, asking the commission to consider a $912,000 city contribution to complete critical architectural work on the expansion. Anastasia Perez, director of development and marketing, told commissioners IMAS recorded more than 51,000 visitors last year and that about 45 percent of visitors reported McAllen ZIP codes.
The nut graf: IMAS leaders presented project goals—expand gallery and exhibit space, create three interactive galleries (World, Plaza and the Studio), add a Science on a Sphere theater, and secure an endowment—framing the work as both cultural infrastructure and an education resource for schoolchildren.
Architect Laura Nasri Warren presented design concepts and said Phase 1 would involve work on a roughly 23,209‑square‑foot footprint with 19,209 square feet renovated or expanded and an annex to house operations. Warren said design work will address building envelope, energy performance and visitor flow and recommended materials to reduce heat gain and improve insulation.
IMAS provided audience and program metrics: staff said over half of its visitors are school‑age children; the museum holds roughly 14,000 objects in its collection; more than 13,000 people gained free or discounted access last year through community partnerships; and the campaign's total project goal is $35,000,000. Fortescue said the campaign currently counts support from 45 donors and that typical campaign gifts average about $15,000.
There was no formal vote. Commissioners and staff acknowledged the museum's community support in the audience; IMAS said it received a $50,000 contribution over the weekend and urged continued city partnership while it completes architectural and fundraising milestones.
