Construction has started on the new Cape Fear Museum and downtown Public Library facility in New Hanover County, North Carolina. This project, known as Project Grace, is a joint effort between the county, Cape Fear Development, LS3P, and Montieth Construction. The groundbreaking ceremony took place on February 16, with completion expected in late 2025.
The new facility aims to make downtown Wilmington a hub for learning and culture. Future plans include potential development on the south side of the block, possibly including a Michael Jordan Family Museum. The museum and library will move to the new space after construction is completed.
The Cape Fear Museum will offer new learning opportunities, such as a 60-seat planetarium, an outdoor learning gallery, and an interactive exhibit on Lower Cape Fear history. The library will have updated spaces for children and teens, an improved Local History Room, and a design that allows more natural light.
The current downtown library and parking deck will stay open during construction. The existing museum on Market Street will continue to store the collection of artifacts, a research library, design and fabrication shop, and an outdoor museum park after the new museum opens.