Heritage Center groundbreaking set

The public is invited to attend the groundbreaking for the North Dakota Heritage Center expansion project at the North Dakota Heritage Center in Bismarck on Tuesdaybeginning at 11 a.m. At that time, a program will begin in the Russell Reid Auditorium, followed by the actual groundbreaking event. Gov. John Hoeven will be joined by former governors Allen Olson, George Sinner, Ed Schafer and former First Lady Grace Link as well as other officials at the program and groundbreaking.

The 2009 Legislative Assembly authorized $51.7 million for the expansion of the exhibits and collections spaces of the North Dakota Heritage Center. Of this, $39.7 million in state funds was appropriated. The remaining funds are being raised by the State Historical Society of North Dakota Foundation from other sources.

Merl Paaverud, director of the State Historical Society of North Dakota, said the expansion of the Heritage Center will nearly double its size with the addition of 97,000 square feet. Construction should be completed by 2014, the 125th anniversary of North Dakota.

“What better time than that to showcase an extraordinary state museum that reflects our rich heritage and history, not only for us, but also for our children and for generations to come,” Paaverud said.

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