A $60 million attraction with unprecedented technology will open on Independence Mall in fall 2018, highlighting how from past to present, the Bible has changed those who changed America, American Bible Society announced Wednesday.
The Faith & Liberty Discovery Center is expected to draw 250,000 visitors annually, accelerating strong growth for America’s most historic square mile. The immersive experience of the Faith & Liberty Discovery Center is being led by the award-winning firm Local Projects, which recently spearheaded the 9/11 Memorial & Museum and ranks as one of the most innovative in the nation. Architectural design is being led by the Philadelphia principals of SaylorGregg. Once opened, the Faith & Liberty Discovery Center is projected to add over $10 million annually to Philadelphia’s economy.
To understand the economic impact of the new Faith & Liberty Discovery Center, American Bible Society hired Econsult Solutions to conduct an economic impact study. The study found that the attraction would produce 540 temporary jobs and drive $110 million in economic impact. Once open, the Faith & Liberty Discovery Center would hire about 60 people and generate $267,000 in state taxes annually.
“In the city where William Penn chartered religious freedom, I am excited that the Faith & Liberty Discovery Center will help tell an overlooked story of our history,” said Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney. “This will be a tremendous addition to Philadelphia, and an amazing experience for all our visitors.”
“We are thrilled to open this exciting new experience for Philadelphia and our nation,” American Bible Society President and CEO Roy Peterson said. “What the Faith & Liberty Discovery Center should be, at its finest, is a place that unites — celebrating a diversity of faiths, backgrounds and points of view. And ultimately, the Faith & Liberty Discovery Center will spark a curiosity: How did the Bible influence the people who shaped our nation? And what difference can this book make in our lives today?”
To read the entire press release, click here.
Check out the media coverage:
Independence Mall to host $60M attraction celebrating impact of Bible on American life – Philly Voice
$60 million Bible center planned for Independence Mall – Philly.com
New $60M attraction to come to Philadelphia’s historic district – Philadelphia Business Journal