PGAV and Air Zoo Launch Master Planning Project to Shape Future Growth and Visitor Experiences

Photos courtesy of Air Zoo and Science Center

The Air Zoo Aerospace and Science Center has engaged experience planning and design firm PGAV Destinations to develop a strategic vision and master plan. The plan builds on the Air Zoo’s momentum by laying the foundation for significant capital improvement projects designed to elevate the visitor experience and chart a course for sustainable growth. Through a dynamic, collaborative approach, this initiative aims to build new business opportunities and strengthen the Air Zoo’s role in the community for years to come.

The comprehensive and holistic approach to planning consists of community engagement,

market analysis, interpretive planning, business planning, and strategic development of new science, technology, engineering, art, and math experiences. The plan will set a course for the Air Zoo to fulfill its mission to make a positive impact locally, regionally, and nationally with connections that inspire and support financial sustainability.

“We are thrilled to embark on this journey with PGAV to shape the future of the Air Zoo,” said Troy Thrash, Air Zoo President & CEO. “This collaboration will help us build on our mission and community impact. We will ignite curiosity and inspire our visitors with experiences that leave a lasting impression.”

Over its 45-year history,

the Air Zoo grew from a nine-plane hangar display to a stunning, world-class aerospace and science center with over 100 rare aircraft and spacecraft, interactive exhibits, and cutting-edge educational programs for people of all ages. Its restoration work on historic aircraft has gained international recognition.

“Innovation is in the Air Zoo DNA,” said Tom Owen, PGAV Vice President. “Working with the Air Zoo team allows our team to push the boundaries and redefine what a museum and science experience can be.”

The completed plan will create a roadmap for a phased implementation of multiple expansion and improvement projects on the 50-acre campus adjacent to the Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport. Scheduled for completion in 2025, the master plan will subsequently guide a strategic, multi-year implementation process.

About the Air Zoo

The Air Zoo is an internationally acclaimed Smithsonian-affiliated aerospace and science center, boasting a renowned collection of over 100 rare and historically significant aircraft and more than 100,000 unique artifacts, displays, and exhibits showcasing history, science, and technology. The Air Zoo stands apart from similar museums and learning centers of its kind, with a keen focus on hands-on learning and engaging educational programs. Located in Kalamazoo, Michigan, the Air Zoo is a one-of-a-kind destination perfect for the whole family with flight simulators, a theater, amusement rides, hands-on exhibits, a restoration program that specializes in WWII planes rescued from the bottom of Lake Michigan, and a one-of-a-kind indoor, hand-painted mural that reaches 32 feet tall and 800 feet wide!

About PGAV Destinations

PGAV Destinations is a global leader in the planning and design of unique destinations. Now entering its sixth decade, the practice has evolved to become the ideal destination-consulting partner, skilled at developing growth-oriented master plans and translating those plans into successful projects. No other firm offers such an integrated approach to destination planning.

Clients of PGAV Destinations include the Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum, Conner Prairie Living History Museum, Cincinnati Museum Center, National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, Fort Ticonderoga, Museum of Ohio, Monticello, Missouri History Museum, National Air & Space Museum, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex & Space Shuttle Atlantis, Virginia Air & Space Science Center, Armstrong Air & Space Museum, Patriots Point, Saint Louis Science Center, and the Missouri History Museum.