Armed Forces & Aerospace Museum - Who knew?

[NOTE: Embedded video was disabled on YouTube-you can view it via this link ] WEST PLAINS - OK, let's see a show of hands:  How many of you out there were aware we're in the process of fund raising for a new museum...ahem...an aerospace museum?  That's what we thought.  We'd heard bits and pieces but only recently saw the sweet 3D video-clip on YouTube of what the place might look like, and we like what we see.  It's to be located on the West Plains adjacent to I-90 at the intersection of Electric Ave & Geiger Blvd [GMAP]. If you've ever driven by the Spruce Goose down in McMinville, OR you'll understand why.

The complex is big measuring in at around 123,000-square-feet when all phases are completed, and will have loads of glass that should help display the thirty-two suspended and parked aircraft from the collection.  One that won't be 'under-roof' will be the massive B-52 parked out in front of the building.  Still, it should make for a pretty memorable landmark for visitors entering Spokane from the West (e.g. "...and take the exit after the big plane...").  To date only $1.3 million of the $5.8 million Phase I cost has been raised.  The project overall is expected to run upwards of $30 million when complete.  It's also expected to attract between 50,000 and 100,000 visitors annually according to the Journal of Biz.  If you're interested in seeing  what local players have kicked in to help this thing get built you can view the list [pdf].  If you're interested in having your name added feel free to donate.

• Spokane Armed Forces and Aerospace Museum [main site]
• Aerospace Museum Worth the Hard Effort [JOB]
• Backers of aerospace museum prepare for takeoff [SR]

Comments

[Andrew Waddilove]

I like it.
It's going to be a cool museum when completed.
I also like the high visibility of the museum from Interstate 90.

[rob]

what is wrong with the video link? is it down already?

[dan/Spokane]

Yes, I have heard about fund raising for the museum. I hope it really takes off. Great location next to the airport and great exposure next to Interstate 90! Spokane has a rich history with the aviation history, so it will be a real asset for the local/regional economy!

[El Corte]

This museum will be home to collections that cover every branch of the Armed Forces. For a hidden gem and sneak peak, stop by the Sea Services Museum at 5101 N. Assembly on Wednesdays between 10-2pm. Tucked back behind the U.S. Navy reserve center fence is a small building that is absolutely exploding with military memorabilia. It's closed for the winter, but will be open in March.