Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie and Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris, along with other Queens officials, have announced an $8.5 million investment from New York State for the Queens Museum. The funding will support the creation of the borough’s first children’s museum for arts and culture, named the Suna Children’s Museum at Queens Museum. Additional renovations include new galleries, an auditorium, updated lobby space, and a playscape.
Speaker Heastie emphasized the importance of cultural institutions like the Queens Museum in providing residents access to art and culture: “They empower individuals to learn and engage in meaningful experiences.” Senate Deputy Leader Gianaris noted that this state funding would help create an accessible space serving future generations.
Since its founding in 1972, the Queens Museum has been dedicated to high-quality arts programming for New Yorkers. The museum serves 250,000 individuals annually across diverse backgrounds. The new state funding aims to enhance accessibility and provide spaces for creativity.
The Suna Children’s Museum will cover over 15,000 square feet with classrooms and performance spaces. The renovations will allow for new cultural celebrations and educational programs.
Sally Tallant, President of the Queens Museum, expressed gratitude for this transformative investment: “This groundbreaking project will not only enhance accessibility but also strengthen our ability to serve a new generation.”
Paula Kirby, Board Chair of the Queens Museum, highlighted that this major funding commitment is an investment in Queens’ children: “This beloved institution will soon be home to a world-class children’s museum.”
Assemblymember Sam Berger stated that this investment enriches “the cultural tapestry which is the borough of Queens,” while Assemblymember Catalina Cruz praised efforts leading to this historic funding.
Other officials such as Assemblymembers Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas and Ron Kim echoed support for maintaining accessibility to art through this significant project.
The project’s completion is expected by 2027 and promises local construction jobs prioritized for businesses and workers in the area.
