Port Discovery Children’s Museum | Phase 2 Interior Renovations

Port Discovery Children’s Museum Phase 2 Interior Renovations represent the most complex and transformative stage of a multi‑phase effort to renew one of Maryland’s most heavily visited cultural institutions. Following critical exterior and infrastructure improvements completed during Phase 1, Lewis Contractors led the comprehensive interior renovation of the historic museum while it remained fully operational for the public.

Phase 2 focused on reimagining interior spaces to better support hands‑on learning, imaginative play, and community engagement. Work included selective demolition and reconstruction of aging exhibits, renovation of the museum’s entrance lobby and atrium, upgrades to restrooms and support areas, refreshed retail space, and new finishes and lighting throughout. The redesigned lobby now serves as a welcoming civic front door, using playful scale, color, and lighting to create a vibrant first impression aligned with the museum’s educational mission.

The most technically demanding scope involved construction of two signature attractions located at the heart of the museum: the four‑story SkyClimber and the S.S. Friend Ship. Installation of the SkyClimber required a highly coordinated steel truss system tied into the building’s existing structural framework. Sequencing, verification, and safety planning were critical, as work occurred within an active public environment and in close proximity to other exhibits.

Construction of the Port Exhibit introduced additional complexity. Portions of the ship had been fabricated off site prior to construction, resulting in significant constructability conflicts with the existing structure. Lewis Contractors assumed a hands‑on problem‑solving role, leading a redesign effort that included extensive material testing, constructability reviews, and detailed 3D coordination. After evaluating multiple materials, flexible plywood was selected to achieve the required geometry, durability, and installation tolerances. The ship was delivered in sections and assembled on site to meet schedule and access constraints.

Throughout Port Discovery Children’s Museum Phase 2 Interior Renovations, all work was carefully phased around museum hours and executed within the tight logistical limitations of a dense urban site. The completed interior transformation delivers a safe, durable, and engaging cultural environment that supports education, exploration, and community connection for generations to come.