Port Discover completes building purchase

Port Discover is making plans for its new science center after completing its purchase of the former Arts of the Albemarle building on Tuesday

Director LuAnne Pendergraft said the 4,000-square-foot building, located on Main Street in Elizabeth City’s downtown, needs some alterations before it can be used for hands-on programs teaching children about science.

“There needs to be some work to the space to accommodate our move in there,” Pendergraft said.

Port Discover currently is working on renovation plans as well as a timeline for those renovations.

Some of the improvements planned include a toddler area and a classroom for groups of visitors. The new center will feature some of the same exhibits now on display in Port Discover’s current facility, which is a portion of the former AoA building.

Port Discover is using a combination of public funds and private donations to purchase and renovate the building. The cost of the project is $375,000.

While Port Discover prepares its new digs, the existing center will continue to provide programs, Pendergraft said.

The larger building will allow the non-profit to serve more people at one time.

Port Discover sought and received $150,000 in tourism funds from both Elizabeth City and Pasquotank County. The county will pay its share of the monies over 10 years while the city will be paying its share over five years.