KIDZEUM CALLS

Kidzeum, the proposed Springfi eld museum for kids, is seeking additional TIF funding from the city of Springfi eld, with hopes of starting construction as soon as possible. The joint effort between St. John’s Children’s Hospital and SIU School of Medicine previously asked for $975,000 in funding from the downtown TIF district but received only $675,000 because the project had only raised about $3.8 million of its $6.8 million. Kidzeum has since brought its total raised to $5.7 million and is now asking the Springfi eld City Council for the remaining $300,000 to start construction. They’ve already lined up O’Shea Builders of Springfi eld as their contractor and accepted delivery of the fi rst truckload of exhibits, with a projected open date some time in spring 2016. The project would be located in existing historic buildings at 412, 414 and 416 E. Adams St. in downtown Springfi eld. Kidzeum estimates its economic benefi t at $2.97 million, with 97 construction jobs, 12 full-time jobs and fi ve part-time jobs created. The city council is expected to vote on the proposal on Aug. 4. For more information, visit www. kidzeum.org.