The big Interpretive Center unveil is close!

After 5 years and a number of starts and stops, the Interpretive and Visitor Center at the Schuylkill River National and State Heritage Area’s (SRHA) headquarters in Pottstown is about to open.

Final fabrication, programming and installation is taking place with a target opening for the end of May. Miller Designworks, in conjunction with Steel City Displays, has created an engaging experience that will help visitors see the Schuylkill River as the area treasure that it is. Through the theme of the River of Revolutions, various centers will demonstrate to visitors how the river is the thread that runs through the American, Industrial and Environmental Revolutions.

Using vibrant large-scale graphics, physical objects and artifacts, video, audio and interactive multimedia, the visitors will be engaged in many ways. Visitor involvement is encouraged, through a “What will You Change Challenge”, an ongoing program of area events, and submission of photos and videos for possible inclusion in the multimedia display on the large flat screen. Visitors will also be able to get their National Park passport stamped at the center.

Highlights of the center include a working water wall surrounded by a natural material environment, kid-sized activities, and a unique 3D relief map table with interactive touchscreens displaying virtual narrated tours of the Heritage area.

The center was designed and constructed with sustainability in mind, using reclaimed flooring, recycled materials in displays, and energy conserving LED lighting systems.

We’re really proud of what we’ve pulled together on a tight budget and in a small space, and we look forward to sharing it with the community. Thanks also goes to the great staff at the SRHA, whose knowledge, input and good nature made it a really fun project!