City of Jonesboro Awarded $15,000 Grant for NEA Children’s Museum Feasibility Study

JONESBORO, Ark. — The City of Jonesboro is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a $15,000 grant from the Arkansas Tourism Attraction Feasibility Study Matching Grant Program. This grant will be used to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study for the proposed Northeast Arkansas Children’s Museum.

The feasibility study, to be conducted by Roto, an interdisciplinary creative design agency, will play a critical role in determining the viability of the NEA Children’s Museum in Jonesboro. The study will explore various factors essential to the success of the project, including market area analysis, demographic trends, estimated attendance by tourists, economic impact, and the overall financial sustainability of the museum.

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The study will include:

• Market area information and projected market support
• Detailed demographics of the targeted market
• Estimates of tourist attendance and travel trends
• Cost projections for the museum project
• Analysis of the economic impact on the Jonesboro area
• Estimated gross income and financial sustainability assessment

Additionally, the process will involve the coordination and facilitation of virtual and in-person workshops, public meetings, and listening sessions to gather community input. The creative stage of the study will focus on site selection, architectural design, and space planning for the future museum. The final documentation will provide a detailed plan, including cost estimates and a capital campaign strategy.

The feasibility study is expected to be completed by December 25, 2024, with a comprehensive plan in place to guide future fundraising efforts and stakeholder engagement. Within 30 days of the study’s completion, the City of Jonesboro will submit the necessary documentation to Arkansas Tourism to receive the matching grant funds.

Mayor Harold Copenhaver expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating:

“This feasibility study is a significant step toward making the Northeast Arkansas Children’s Museum a reality. It will provide us with the insights and data needed to ensure that the museum not only meets the needs of our community but also becomes a sustainable and thriving attraction for years to come.”

press release