Powerhouse Science Center breaks ground on Sacramento River
After many years of planning and searching for funding, Sacramento's Powerhouse Science Center finally broke ground. This jewel on our riverfront and center of STEM education will occupy a former PG&E power plant that for many decades has sat shuttered along the Sacramento River levee. The large group of past and present city staff members and elected officials attending the groundbreaking demonstrated how long this project has taken, and how its backers persevered. Former Mayor Heather Fargo recalled how the city bought the former power plant for $1 from the state Department of Water Resources, which had abandoned plans to turn the building into a water museum. In December, it looked like the project would be doomed once again, but SMUD stepped up to be naming rights sponsor and will make a $9.25 million contribution. It may have taken awhile, but the wait will pay off with a major civic amenity for Sacramento.
