Greensboro Science Center To Remain Closed Through April 30, 2020

In a continued effort to stop the spread of COVID-19, the Greensboro Science Center (GSC) will remain closed through April 30, 2020. In addition, the GSC will reduce onsite staffing and initiate an “essential staff only” operating plan effective March 24, 2020. Essential staff are primarily those responsible for the health and wellbeing of the GSC’s animals.

GSC leaders are in daily contact with Association of Zoos and Aquariums, American Alliance of Museums and Association of Science and Technology Centers officials so organizations can learn from one another and understand how our nation’s accredited zoos, aquariums, museums and science centers are also coping with COVID-19. In addition, regular communication the GSC’s Board of Directors and city partners allows the entire team to remain in the loop as we collectively work to get through this crisis together.

GSC CEO, Glenn Dobrogosz, says, “Our staff and animals are doing fine. But, to ensure the highest safety for our team and follow even stricter social distancing standards, the GSC will carefully move into a daily routine focused 100% on our animals and the dedicated curators, keepers and aquarists who care for them every single day.”

“Our world, nation, state and city are facing unprecedented challenges,” Dobrogosz continues. “But, when COVID-19 passes and we beat this invisible killer, Greensboro and our nation will spring back to life. The GSC’s staff and board are committed to the economic and marketing power of science-based tourism to help bring visitors back to our city’s streets, restaurants and cultural attractions.”

Preparing for Hurricane Florence

As Hurricane Florence sets her sights on the North Carolina coast, the Greensboro Science Center team is closely monitoring the situation, enacting emergency preparedness plans, and readying supplies to deal with the possible aftermath of the storm.

Early Monday morning, the GSC’s Leadership Team met to discuss possible scenarios and ensure all departments have the resources they need to make appropriate preparations. Emergency staffing plans are in place, complete with phone trees, ride-share plans to ensure critical staff can make it in to work, and even on-site sleeping arrangements for any team members who may need to ride out the storm on GSC grounds.

Our animal care team is focused on increasing our back-stock of dietary items, medical supplies, batteries, flashlights, etc. in the event of store closings, delayed deliveries, and/or power outages. Speaking of power outages, each animal exhibit has a backup generator (which is tested regularly) to help ensure our animals’ exhibits continue to meet their needs in emergency situations.

As the storm approaches in earnest, animals will be locked in to their blockhouses (or indoor exhibit areas). Animals who are located in areas that may be subject to flooding or damage will be moved to alternate locations. Outdoor items, like furniture, sign holders, and research equipment (like the bat detector located on our roof), that could potentially become projectiles will be stored in a safe location until the threat has subsided.

Crocodile Blockhouse

In addition to the safety and well-being of our animals, exhibits and staff, we are also committed to providing our guests with safe, enjoyable experiences. As such, we have decided to postpone our annual gala, See to Believe, which was originally scheduled to take place Friday, September 14. The event will now be held Friday, October 19. More information about this event can be found on our website: www.greensboroscience.org/seetobelieve.

The GSC will be closed on Friday, September 14 as planned. Instead of preparing for a party, our team will be focused on preparing for storm damage. We appreciate your understanding as we dedicate our team’s time to the safety and well-being of our animals. Any additional closings or delays will be announced on our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/greensborosciencecenter.

While we take great pride in being proactive, we also realize that emergency situations often result in unexpected outcomes. To be as prepared as possible, we have ensured all of our vehicles – from trucks to tractors – are fueled and ready to be used as needed. Power tools that may be needed for cleanup have been checked, cleaned, fueled, and sharpened.

Like many others along the path of the storm, we are preparing for the worst and hoping for the best. We hope you and your families stay safe during the storm. We will continue to share updates on our Facebook page.