Port Townsend Marine Science Center

The Port Townsend Marine Science Center will prototype and evaluate pop-up exhibitions to inform the development of permanent exhibits planned for its new downtown location. Building upon a previous IMLS project to develop an exhibition master plan, this second phase will test and refine the plan to ensure it meets community needs and resonates with visitors. The center will convene stakeholder groups to review themes and will develop and install three temporary pop-up exhibits for testing and evaluation. Staff will purchase exhibit supplies and materials, and contract with an exhibit designer and external evaluator. The project will result in deeper community engagement and expanded organizational capacity. Evaluation of prototype exhibits will ensure permanent exhibits are engaging and advance knowledge and stewardship of the vital marine ecosystems of the Salish Sea, benefiting the community and museum visitors.