Sci-Port: Louisiana's Science Center

In its early beginnings in the late 1980s, Sci-Port provided the public with educational exhibits and programs in local bank lobbies and area malls. These major learning experiences included the Gateway to China and Dinomation Dinosaurs exhibitions, summer day camps along Shreveport-Bossier's downtown riverfront and programs at Louisiana State University Shreveport. These beginning efforts introduced the community to the fun, enlightening programs that a permanent science center would provide to the region.

In 1994, a 5,000 square-foot interim site for the science center opened in downtown Shreveport, making year-round learning opportunities a reality. The Junior League of Shreveport, the National Science Foundation, the City of Shreveport, the Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau, community residents and other organizations provided initial funding to launch the site. Over 300,000 people experienced science first hand through the site's 3 1/2 years of outreach programs and exhibits on sports, insects, weather, electricity and more.

The success of the interim site lent momentum to plans for the development of a permanent, 67,000 square-foot science center on the downtown riverfront. The current facility opened to the public on November 21, 1998, and featured over 200 interactive science exhibits and programs in six Discovery Galleries, an IMAX Dome Theatre, a demonstration theater, nationally touring exhibitions, a cafe and gift shop. The $21 million dollar construction project was made possible through broad public and private support, including $16 million from the State of Louisiana and the City of Shreveport and $5 million in contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations.

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