The Speed Art Museum will re-open to the public next March, according to museum officials.
The museum is in the midst of a three-year closure for a major expansion. The project will triple the existing gallery space, add an outdoor art park, a cinema, a revamped café and shop, as well as a multipurpose space for lectures and performances.
Museum officials held a news conference Wednesday morning to announce the March 12, 2016, re-opening.
Director Ghyslain d'Humieres said the re-opening weekend will see the museum open for 30 straight hours, to welcome all members of the community.
"A lot of activities and programming, music, collaboration and projects with many other organizations in the community who are going to come with us celebrating the opening of the new Speed," d'Humieres said.
Officials are planning to install a digital countdown clock at Local Speed, the museum’s temporary space on East Market Street.
The Speed also announced the kickoff of a public fundraising campaign called "Speed 365."
The campaign has a goal of $2.5 million to provide funding for outreach and education programs, including the popular "Art Sparks" children's area.
The fundraising appeal follows a $50 million capital campaign that began well in advance of the museum’s May 2013 closure. D’Humieres said his vision for the new facility includes activities for the entire community.
"I want a dialogue between younger generation and older generation, I want a dialogue between the public and the art, and we have the possibility to do that because you all together help us to build this unbelievable museum," D'Humieres said.