Instead of repairing and revamping Gilcrease Museum, city officials plan to tear it down and build a new facility at the cost of tens of millions of dollars. The Gilcrease Museum, home to more than 350,000 art objects will get a new building paid for a tax increase package approved by Tulsa voters.

Surveyors examined the current structure, which consists of a 1913 building and four layers of renovations that were added between 1940 and 1987. They concluded that a fifth addition to the existing structure would neither sustain nor meet museum operating standards. In fact, they claim it would be cheaper to build a new, modern museum than to repair the old structure.

A new building will have more gallery space and have added features to help preserve the artwork. Construction would eventually mean the museum would be closed for two years.

The exact budget is not clear but officials claim there is enough sales tax money – plus a $10 million grant from the A.R. and Marylouise Tandy Foundation – to build a new building. The city has more than $83 million.

“We are fortunate to have the expertise of SmithGroup and Gallagher and Associates who have been involved with the design and construction of some of the country’s most significant museums. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to do this right, take Gilcrease into the 22nd century and ensure the city’s asset is sustained for years to come,” said Susan Neal, Executive Director of Gilcrease and Vice President for Public Affairs at The University of Tulsa, which manages the museum on behalf of the city.