Renewal Project Updates
We're continuing to make exciting progress on our Renewal Project! This project is designed to benefit the whole community. It reflects municipal priorities, community feedback, and our own strategic plans -- and it’s going to be pretty darned cool. The revitalized exterior, new atrium and expanded presentation space, accessibility upgrades, mine experience, and lifestyle exhibits will all help us welcome more visitors – and tell more of Rossland's incredible stories.
Like any large-scale community project, we’ve had to adapt along the way. We’ve integrated essential building and infrastructure upgrades, met changing building codes, responded to requests from the Ministry of Transportation and Transit (which owns the property in front of the museum), and adjusted for the sharp rise in construction costs since the pandemic. We’ve been able to rise to these challenges, finding additional money to bring into the community. As of August 2025, we're thrilled to have over $5 million in confirmed investment in this community project. That includes funding from Canadian Heritage, Employment & Social Development Canada, Teck Metals Ltd., Columbia Basin Trust, and over $2.5 million from the Province of BC.
Funds as of August 2025
Museum construction during Phase One, 2017
Lately, we’ve been finalizing designs, securing permits, and preparing for contractor bids. Throughout, we’ve been working closely with many partners, including the City of Rossland. The museum is an independent non-profit society operating in a City-owned building. In the past, major renovations - such as Renewal Phase One in 2017 - were administered by the City. The museum supplied the funds, and the City managed the construction contracts. At a recent meeting, Council voted not to take on that role for Phase Two.
Where does this leave us? Well, this change means we need to re-evaluate our next steps. As a registered charity, the museum cannot access the same GST rebates as municipalities, so the decision could add over $150,000 to the project budget. Additional delays jeopardize over $1.5 million in confirmed federal and provincial funding.
But here’s the good news: we are still on track, still pushing forward, and still committed to making this project a reality. With the support of our partners, funders, and community, we know we’ll get there.
Want to help us close the gap? You can make a one-time gift or become a monthly donor to the Renewal today. Every contribution - big or small - moves us closer to opening the doors on this incredible new chapter for the museum and for Rossland.
We can’t wait to see this project take shape and to welcome you into the renewed museum. Thank you for your ongoing support.
If you have ideas, advice, or want to get involved, please reach out to Joelle at museumdirector@rosslandmuseum.ca
💛 Be Part of Rossland’s Renewal
Help us close the funding gap! Every donation supports accessibility upgrades, the Mine Experience, and revitalized exhibits.
Why This Investment Matters to Rossland
The Renewal Project isn’t just about bricks, mortar, and exhibits—it’s a high-impact investment in our community. Here are a few ways the project pays back:
Protecting a City Asset
Almost $6 million is being invested into a City-owned facility with minimal local taxpayer contribution. The upgrades extend the building’s life by 20–30 years and prevent costly emergency repairs.Bringing New Money to Rossland
Over $5 million in confirmed federal, provincial, corporate, and philanthropic funding has already been secured. Every $1 of municipal support has leveraged roughly $140 from outside the community.Reducing Long-Term Costs
New HVAC, insulation, and fire suppression systems will lower operating costs, reduce maintenance needs, and improve safety compliance.Driving Tourism & Local Spending
Expanded exhibits, visitor services, and rental spaces will draw more visitors year-round. Even small increases in visitation mean new dollars spent in local shops, restaurants, and accommodations.Expanding Community Use
The new Atrium and accessible public spaces will provide more opportunities for community gatherings, events, and programs — creating a true cultural hub for Rossland.Risk of Inaction
Delays could mean losing more than $1.5 million in confirmed senior government funding and higher construction costs each year due to inflation.