By Scott Pohl, WKAR
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wkar/local-wkar-891060.mp3
EAST LANSING, MI –
Hundreds of people gathered at Michigan State University today to break ground on the Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum.
WKAR's Scott Pohl reports.
AUDIO: As music played and a giant crane raised the Sparty mascot above their heads, dignitaries turned the first spadefuls of dirt to begin construction on the Broad Art Museum.
The Broads have pledged $28-million for the project, now estimated at $40-million to $45-million. Eli Broad says the design by award-winning architect Zaha Hadid will be as big a draw as the art within.
"There's no doubt in my mind," Broad said, "that people will come here not only to experience the art, but also to view and appreciate iconic architecture."
Governor Jennifer Granholm praised the building's unique pleated stainless steel and glass design.
"This museum is going to be a tremendous visual experience for visitors," Granholm said, "beginning with the building's exterior, which I'm sure you've all seen in the plans, and then continuing on the inside and throughout the galleries."
Construction is expected to take 20 months, with an opening in the spring of 2012.