Kavita Self, executive director of the Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land, asked the city to fund part of a proposed $4 million renovation at a Nov. 3 joint meeting. The early-stage plans, which are subject to change, include life-sized sculptures of dinosaurs and locally found reptiles, upgraded exhibits and accessibility improvements.
Self said the museum, which has operated for 17 years, wants to strengthen scientific literacy over the next 20 years. She said she hopes to double the number of visitors in 10 years and reach high schoolers and college students. Self said the three-year project would close only one gallery at a time, allowing the museum to stay open.
The museum opened in 2009 in a 43,000-square-foot former prison under a public and private partnership. Community Development Coordinator Ana Rodriguez said the Sugar Land 4B Corp. is set to discuss the funding resolution in November, and the City Council is set to vote on a lease amendment in December. Museum staff said they will announce a capital campaign in January, with completion expected in fall 2029.