IDAHO FALLS — The Art Museum of Eastern Idaho’s planned Education Center is gaining real momentum toward a physical building, museum leaders and their construction partner said this week.
In a Sept. 20, 2026 LocalNews8 report, Executive Director Alexa Stanger said the project is “really starting to make progress and momentum towards the physical building being here.” The museum has partnered with Big-D Construction to carry the design forward. Natalie Hunsaker, Big-D’s business development manager, called it an exciting chance to bring more public space to the Riverwalk community.
What the Education Center will add
Stanger described classroom space on the main floor and more classrooms on the second floor, plus a large multi-purpose room with windows, a deck, and views of the Snake River. The museum’s capital-campaign materials describe a three-story addition along South Capital Avenue next to the existing building — with an elevated deck and patio meant to strengthen the link between indoor galleries and the Riverwalk.
According to the museum, the Education Center adds about 14,000 square feet of new space and lifts the overall campus to roughly 22,000 square feet — nearly doubling the facility. Plans include expanded gallery room for larger exhibits, a STEAM interactive kids studio, workshop and storage space, barrier-free entry, and more than 3,000 square feet of basement collection storage with elevator access.
Design, timeline, and funding
Resin Architects (Graham Whipple) has worked with the museum since 2019 on floor plans and concept renderings. The museum’s board approved the design in March 2026. Earlier coverage put a historical cost estimate near $6 million, with fundraising underway since 2024 through foundation grants and private gifts. Construction has been targeted for 2027, with a hoped-for opening around 2028, as fundraising and final design work continue.
For people watching downtown Idaho Falls or considering a move to eastern Idaho, the project is a clear signal that cultural and education space is growing along the river — not just housing and offices.
Project Quick Facts:
Rendering: Courtesy Art Museum of Eastern Idaho / Resin Architects (also published via East Idaho News; Amy Thompson).
Sources: LocalNews8 / KIFI, “One step closer – The Art Museum of Eastern Idaho Education Center” (Kaelyn Blessinger, Sept. 20, 2026); East Idaho News, “After nearly 25 years… art museum looks to expand its footprint” (Daniel V. Ramirez, April 7, 2026); Idaho State Journal coverage of Resin Architects partnership (April 2026); theartmuseum.org/education-center.
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