This week, I had the privilege of leading a group of county and state officials, along with esteemed stakeholders, on a comprehensive tour of the MiSci museum facility right here in Schenectady. Our goal was simple yet vital: to assess the current state of the site, including its archives and lower levels, and explore potential avenues for improvement. As we embarked on our exploratory journey, we delved into the heart of MiSci, immersing ourselves in its rich history and envisioning its promising future.

Our tour included a thorough walk-through of the archives stored on-site, as well as an examination of the existing building’s lower levels. While our observations revealed minor damage in the artifact storage area, primarily in the concrete, I was heartened to see that the overall facility appeared remarkably dry and free of moisture. It’s important to note that while these initial observations provide valuable insights, testing has not yet been conducted.

However, our preliminary physical assessment suggests that any necessary repairs may be minimal and manageable. Thank you to Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature Gary Hughes, County Legislators Rich Patierne and Cathy Gatta, Metroplex Chairman Ray Gillen, Dr. Gina Gould, Executive Director of the museum, and MiSci Board Member Bill Sweet for joining me on this journey. Their presence underscored the collaborative spirit that drives our community forward.

Together, we share a commitment to exploring viable solutions that will not only address any structural concerns but also enhance the overall visitor experience at MiSci. This tour marks the beginning of an exciting journey towards revitalizing our beloved museum, and I am thrilled to see the enthusiasm and dedication of all involved. As we move forward, I look forward to continued collaboration and innovation in our efforts to create a more vibrant and accessible cultural hub for our community.

Let’s continue to work together to build a brighter future for Schenectady and beyond. Stay tuned for updates as I meet with county officials next week to discuss potential solutions.