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Greensboro Science Center constructing new rainforest biodome habitat; Biodome set to open in 2027

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  Published in Science and Technology on Monday, September 22nd 2025 at 9:56 GMT by WXII 12 NEWS
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Greensboro Science Center’s New Rainforest Biodome: A 2027 Vision of Immersive Conservation

The Greensboro Science Center (GSC) is poised to become a regional beacon for environmental education and biodiversity preservation with the announcement of its newest flagship attraction – a sprawling rainforest biodome slated to open in 2027. The project, which has already sparked excitement among local residents, scientists, and educators, will transform a key corner of the GSC campus into a living laboratory that replicates the lush, dynamic ecosystems of tropical rainforests.

A Bold Expansion in the Heart of the City

The GSC’s current campus, located in Greensboro’s historic downtown, has long served as a hub for interactive science, wildlife displays, and community engagement. The new biodome will occupy the former parking lot on the east side of the campus, roughly 5,000 square feet of open space that has been earmarked for future development since 2019. City planners and the Science Center board have partnered to design a building that will be both an educational asset and a landmark for the city.

“Greensboro is already a leader in science outreach,” said Dr. Susan H. Matthews, President of the Greensboro Science Center. “Adding a rainforest biodome takes that leadership to the next level, providing a platform for cutting‑edge research, conservation partnerships, and hands‑on learning experiences that will resonate with visitors of all ages.”

Design and Sustainability: A Model for Green Architecture

The biodome’s design is an exercise in ecological stewardship. A collaborative effort between the GSC’s own architects and the environmental consulting firm EcoDesign Solutions, the building is projected to achieve LEED Gold certification, a first for a museum facility in North Carolina. Key features include:

• Solar Array & Green Roof: A photovoltaic system covering 3,000 square feet of the roof will power 70 % of the biodome’s energy needs, while a living roof layer will provide insulation and habitat for pollinators.
• Water‑Recycling System: Rainwater will be harvested and filtered to support the indoor garden, reducing municipal water consumption by an estimated 30 % annually.
• Energy‑Efficient HVAC: The climate control system will use variable refrigerant flow technology to maintain the humid tropical conditions with minimal energy use.

The structure’s dome‑shaped roof, modeled after natural canopy layers, will also provide a dramatic architectural centerpiece for the campus, drawing the eye from the main entrance.

Inside the Rainforest: Exhibits, Species, and Interactivity

The 20,000‑square‑foot interior will be divided into five “zones” that reflect distinct rainforest habitats—each designed to foster ecological understanding through immersive storytelling:

1. Canopy Walk – A suspended walkway that lets visitors glide through a simulated canopy, complete with interactive AR‑enabled panels that explain plant‑animal relationships.
2. Waterfall Oasis – A 30‑foot artificial waterfall that feeds a pond populated by amphibians, turtles, and small fish, illustrating the importance of water cycles.
3. Moss & Fern Pavilion – A dark, cool chamber showcasing mosses, ferns, and orchids that respond to visitors’ touch via motion‑sensing lights.
4. Night‑Time Niche – A dimly lit area featuring nocturnal mammals, bats, and insects that demonstrate unique survival adaptations.
5. Conservation Corner – A dedicated space for workshops, citizen‑science projects, and the GSC’s partnerships with local and international conservation organizations.

The biodome will house a diverse array of species, ranging from the Philippine dwarf kingfisher to the green‑belted Hypsipetes warbler, as well as an array of insects and amphibians sourced from accredited suppliers and breeding programs. The GSC’s conservation program will oversee animal welfare, ensuring that all species are kept in conditions that mimic their natural habitats and that any research conducted adheres to stringent ethical guidelines.

Educational Mission and Community Impact

Beyond the thrill of a new exhibit, the GSC emphasizes the biodome’s role as a living classroom. The center has already announced plans for an integrated curriculum that will serve over 12,000 students annually:

• Science‑in‑Action Workshops – Hands‑on lessons in biology, ecology, and environmental science, facilitated by GSC educators.
• Citizen‑Science Projects – Initiatives such as leaf‑counting, bat‑monitoring, and water‑quality sampling that allow visitors to contribute to real research.
• Professional Development – Partnerships with North Carolina State University’s Center for Biodiversity to train teachers in inquiry‑based learning.

The biodome also promises to act as an economic engine for the city. The construction phase, estimated to cost $18 million, will create up to 300 jobs, while the operational phase expects to attract an additional 150–200 full‑time positions for researchers, educators, and maintenance staff.

Funding and Partnerships

The GSC’s funding strategy is a blend of public and private contributions. Key components include:

• State and Local Grants – The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality granted $2 million toward sustainability infrastructure.
• Corporate Sponsorships – Several regional corporations have pledged $5 million in exchange for branding opportunities and educational grants.
• Private Donations – The “Rainforest Future Fund” launched in 2023 amassed $3 million from philanthropists, with additional matching gifts from the Greensboro Community Foundation.
• Crowdfund Campaign – The “Biodome for All” Kickstarter initiative brought in $250,000 from community members who earned naming rights for small features, such as the “Dawn Trail” walkway.

Dr. Matthews notes that “the collaboration between the science center, the city, local businesses, and citizen volunteers is what will make this project truly community‑driven.”

Timeline and Next Steps

• 2024: Foundation laid; construction crews begin erecting the steel framework.
• 2025–2026: Interior construction, installation of exhibits, and testing of HVAC and water systems.
• 2027 (Spring): Grand opening, coinciding with the GSC’s annual Eco‑Festival, which will feature guest speakers, live demonstrations, and a community celebration.

The GSC’s board remains committed to transparency, releasing quarterly progress reports to the public via its website and local media outlets, including The Greensboro News & Record and the North Carolina Environmental Review.

Conclusion

The Greensboro Science Center’s new rainforest biodome promises to be more than an architectural marvel; it is an ambitious stride toward deepening public understanding of the planet’s most vital ecosystems. By blending cutting‑edge sustainability practices, an array of charismatic species, and an interactive educational framework, the biodome will position Greensboro as a national leader in environmental stewardship and science communication. As the construction timeline progresses, the community’s anticipation—and the broader conversation about conservation—continues to grow, reinforcing the vital role that science centers play in shaping a more informed and responsible future.