Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission Set to Begin Construction on Reimagined State Museum of Pennsylvania; Awards Contracts for $79.73 Million Renovation

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August 02, 2026 - Harrisburg, PA

Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission Set to Begin Construction on Reimagined State Museum of Pennsylvania; Awards Contracts for $79.73 Million Renovation

The Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission (PHMC) announced today that four Pennsylvania-based construction firms have been awarded contracts to execute the historic $79.73 million infrastructure revitalization of The State Museum of Pennsylvania. With the contracts finalized and the multi-year transformation officially underway, the State Museum closed to the public on Sunday, August 2. This closure initiates the physical construction phase that will modernize both the visitor experience and the operational stewardship of Pennsylvania's treasured artifacts.

"Awarding these bids marks a pivotal moment in the life of this project," said Andrea Lowery, PHMC Executive Director. "We are officially transitioning from years of careful planning into the physical work of building tomorrow's State Museum. Securing these talented Pennsylvania-based firms ensures our revitalization remains firmly on schedule, allowing us to deliver a world-class, modernized facility to the Commonwealth."

The Department of General Services has officially awarded the prime construction bids, clearing the way for the largest and most comprehensive upgrade to the complex since the museum and tower opened in 1964.

Speakers included:
Lauren Stark, Director of Strategic Initiative (PHMC)
Senator Patty Kim
Representative Nate Davidson

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