Rachel Hogan Carr, executive director of the Nurture Nature Center, told the Northampton County committee on Nov. 6 that the center plans a major expansion and associated outdoor greening project and requested $515,000 in Local Share Account funds to transform a chain‑link parking lot into a green program and demonstration space.

Carr described the center’s science, art and community programming, said the building is about 110 years old, and noted a $4 million Economic Development Administration award that — when matched by the center’s foundation — enabled a 75‑seat immersive dome theater to be added to the project. The dome theater is intended to expand capacity for school groups and regional programming; the presenter said the dome installation is planned for 2027 and will add immersive, raked seating and surround sound.

The LSA request of $515,000 would fund a full‑scale demonstration green parking lot with native plantings, trees, stormwater improvements, a small rain garden, solar demonstrations, an EV charging station, and secure enclosure fencing while retaining limited parking for staff and visitors. Carr said the city of Easton granted relief from strict parking requirements on the condition the center continue and expand its programmatic green space.

Carr said the building construction is expected to be substantially complete in late 2026, with the dome installed mid‑2027 and the parking lot work timed to be completed when the dome opens. She told the committee that the lot currently serves as a heat sink in a changing neighborhood and that the greening project will be a public demonstration of urban sustainability and a program classroom for students and community workshops.

Commissioner Jeff Warren praised the center’s role in Easton’s revitalization and signaled support for placing the request on a future agenda. The county did not take a formal vote during this session.