(WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- The Shedd Aquarium is heralding a half-billion dollar renovation project ahead of its 100th anniversary.
The Shedd Aquarium will be 100 years old in 2030 and its president and CEO Bridget Coughlin outlined extensive changes that will take place there over the next four years, including a plan to transform the exhibit and research space there into an entirely modernized experience.
"In this age of increased urbanization and disconnection from nature, there is greater urgency to ensure more resilient, sustainable, and thriving communities and ecosystems for the future," she said.
"As such, greater opportunity must exist to nurture care and understanding for our shared blue planet. Shedd Aquarium's experience evolution aims to do just that."
The changes will be phased in over the next four years. Some of it's already underway.
Governor Pritzker was among those on hand to lead the applause for Coughlin and the Shedd Board of Directors.
"It's truly living up to its long-standing tradition of going bigger and better than anyone has done before here at the Shedd."
Mayor Brandon Johnson was also on hand to acknowledge that the Shedd's centennial commitment will bring jobs and benefits to Chicago while furthering the Aquarium's mission.
Economic benefits to the city and the state are expected to significantly increase.
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