ERIE METROPARKS NATURE CENTER
In 2021 the Board of Park Commissioners unanimously voted to establish a new nature center for Erie County citizens. The new building will be located within Osborn MetroPark, the current headquarters of Erie MetroParks.
When deciding whether to renovate the current Frost Center facility, an old prison farm, or construct a new facility, a needs assessment revealed the older facility to be beyond economical repair. The cost of the new nature center will be approximately $4 million dollars. While Erie MetroParks will utilize their own capital funds, park officials will offset costs by seeking state funds, local grants, and sponsorships. A fundraising campaign is currently underway and any residents wanting to support the new nature center can do so by CLICKING HERE. If each Erie County resident donates $40 the building will be paid for.
The conceptual design for the new nature center includes educational classrooms, built-in live animal areas, a turtle pond, community space, and a window-in-nature viewing area. Energy efficiency is a priority to minimize environmental impact.
With over 40,000 annual visitors to Osborn MetroParks, this building will enable Erie MetroParks to better serve their visitors and continue the mission of “connecting the community with nature through education and exploration”. The Board of Park Commissioners and park officials are truly excited to offer Erie County residents a beautiful space for all residents that will serve them for generations to come.
Construction began in August 2023 and the project is expected to take 10-12 months to complete. We hope you are as excited as we are! Stay tuned for updates.
The people of Erie County built Erie MetroParks to conserve natural resources and connect people with nature. It was built with public funds and generous donations. The new Nature Center would not be possible without the steadfast support of our Board of Park Commissioners, Erie County residents, and the many donors. This will be a huge addition to Erie County. There are several ways you can donate. Please click the DONATE button to learn more. Thank you!
The new Nature Center would not be possible without the steadfast support of our Board of Park Commissioners, Erie County residents, community partners, and the many donors. THANK YOU to the following contributors:
Phil & Maureen Engeler, Larry Fletcher, Steven F. Smith, Diane & Karle Nolte, Kiwanis Club of Sandusky, The Bettcher Foundation, Don Miers, Michael Heydinger, Carole A Dreffer, Gundlach Sheet Metal Works, Inc., Edward Jones & Co., and all the others that gave.