Finance panel urged to allocate $300,000 for state museum move

Wednesday, April 18, 2001 | 11:05 a.m.

CARSON CITY -- The Senate Finance Committee was urged today to allocate $300,000 to help with planning in preparation for the move of the state Museum in Las Vegas from Lorenzi Park to the Las Vegas Springs.

Sen. Ray Rawson, R-Las Vegas, said in its present location, which is difficult to find, the museum attracts 45,000 visitors annually. The museum could attract 10 times as many visitors with the move, he said.

But Senate Finance Committee Chairman Bill Raggio, R-Reno, questioned how much it would cost to build a new museum. Kenneth Rohrs, director of the state Museums and History Department, estimated the cost at about $35 million. The size of the facility would double, from the present 35,000 square feet to 75,000 square feet.

Raggio told Rohrs it was "highly unlikely" that the state would have the ability in the next four to six years to fund that project through bonds.

Rawson said the city of Las Vegas has indicated it is willing to buy the present museum. "And there is a significant foundation backing the project," which could help with the finances.

He said, "I doubt seriously there would be a request before this body for $35 million."

The $300,000 is in Gov. Kenny Guinn's budget.