Science World lights to return after going dark for a year
Posted August 8, 2023 3:42 pm.
Last Updated August 8, 2023 3:43 pm.
The skyline near Vancouver’s False Creek is about to become more colourful than ever.
Starting on Thursday night, Science World will return to lighting up the night sky, this time with three times as many twinkling lights as before.
From dusk to dawn, 651 LED lights will illuminate and serve as a symbol of the ongoing improvements being made to the 37-year-old building.
“Changing the lights on one of the largest geodesic domes in the world is no small feat,” Tracy Redies, President and CEO of Science World, said in a media release. “We extend our heartfelt appreciation to our dedicated team and contractors for their unwavering commitment and effort to ensure our dome once again sparkles with brilliance.”
Science World, a non-profit organization originally known as Expo Centre, has become an iconic sight on the False Creek waterfront and a hub for STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art & design and math) education in B.C. Its lights have been out since July of 2022.
“While the re-illumination of the dome marks an important milestone in the refurbishment of our iconic landmark, we still have much to do,” Redies said.
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Initially built for Expo 86, the dome was meant to be a temporary structure for about six months. It has now towered over the harbour for over 35 years.
The new lighting system, designed to be more sustainable and energy-efficient, will replace the old setup originally installed for the 80s fair.
This is one of several improvements being made using the $10 million in federal funding announced last fall through the Tourism Relief Fund.
Harjit S. Sajjan, federal minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada, said the funding for Science World was aimed at supporting its recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Science World has been a popular Vancouver attraction for 35 years, and now the iconic dome will illuminate our city skyline brighter than ever before,” he said in a statement.
In total, the nearly-four-decade old building is said to need around $110 million worth of upgrades and repairs.
