“Access for All” grant awarded; construction on accessibility improvements to begin soon

A long-anticipated “Access for All” project pursued by the Northport Historical Society and Museum recently received a boost from the Robert D.L. Gardiner Foundation, which awarded the society a 50% matching grant to begin construction.

This initiative will add a new accessible entrance and ramp to the west side of the museum’s historic 1914 Carnegie Library building, as well as an ADA-compliant restroom that will allow visitors with mobility challenges and families with strollers to safely and comfortably enjoy the museum.

“This project has been a goal for many years,” said Northport Historical Society and Museum Executive Director Terry Reid. “Our mission is to preserve and share Northport’s rich history with everyone, and now thanks to the support of the Gardiner Foundation and our generous donors we’re making that vision a reality for all members of our community.” 

The new side entrance and ramp were designed to preserve the integrity and historic character of the original Carnegie Library structure, museum officials said. The project has been reviewed and approved by both Northport Village and the Architectural Review Board. Local firm Thalheimer Architecture has designed the renovation and Radon Construction Corp. will oversee construction. 

Funding for the museum’s matching contribution has been made possible through “years of fundraising efforts and private donations from the community,” a press release stated. As part of the renovation, the museum’s current shop space will be reconfigured to make room for the accessible restroom. The shop will return in a scaled-back and reimagined format following construction.

The Northport Historical Society and Museum will temporarily close on December 15 as preparations for construction begin, with work expected to start shortly thereafter. 

“This is truly a feel-good moment for our community,” added Carolyn P. Hyatt-Basche, president of the society’s board of trustees. “For the first time in our history, visitors who may have faced barriers to entering our building will be able to access the museum independently and safely. It’s about honoring our past while opening our doors to everyone.”

For updates on construction progress and reopening details, or to donate to the Access for All project, visit www.northporthistorical.org or follow the museum on social media.