CAFR 2016

The Greensboro Science Center , a three-in-one science destination that includes an aquarium, zoo, and science museum, has seen record attendance numbers in the past two years, jumping from an average of 200,000 to over 400,000 annually with an estimated $25 million economic impact on the community. The Center is on a trajectory to realize its original core vision through a series of ongoing improvements and new exhibits, funded by a $20 million bond referendum (approved by voters in 2009) and private donations. The 22,000 square foot Carolina SciQuarium houses a 119,500 gallon aquarium, North Carolina’s only centrally located “inland” aquarium. The SciQuarium opened in June 2013 and offers a complete immersion experience, with over 300,000 in attendance during the first year of operation. Visitors can engage with animal keepers and educators to learn about the different species of animals and fish. In 2014, the Center received a $1 million private donation for the current expansion of the SciQuarium, allowing for at least 40-50 new species and a focus on ocean conservation. In addition, behind-the-scenes tours and educational SciPods focus on the science of animal care. Also located at the site will be an art gallery, classrooms, and renovations to the museum including “ HealthQues t”, a human health and biology wing. Newly opened in 2015 is SKYWILD , an aerial attraction of ropes, platforms, and zip lines. The aerial obstacle course is designed for education, family entertainment, physical fitness, team-building, leadership training, and pure thrill-seeking. Also opened in 2015 is SciPlayBay , a sea focused adventure for children age seven and under, providing a hands-on interaction and educational experience. Another project in the works for 2017 is Prehistoric Passages , a new $2 million interactive dinosaur exhibit and theater with a prehistoric petting zoo and fossils that tell a story, projected using large screens and holograms. The Animal Discovery Zoological Park currently offers 12 acres of close encounters with many animal species and is expected to double in size over the next three years, representing a $10 million investment. In April 2014, the Center earned the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accreditation, a high award, that only 223 of the more that 2,000 facilities nationally that exhibit animals receive. The Greensboro Science Center is the only facility in the state to offer an accredited science museum, zoological park, OmniSphere Theater and aquarium in a single destination. It ranked number three in North Carolina as the top field trip attraction, receiving students, visitors and educators from throughout the state.

The proposed ten-year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) includes approximately $1.62 billion for projects that will be undertaken during FY 2017-2026 and outlines a future financing plan to maintain the City’s current infrastructure and develop new facilities where needed to help achieve the City Council’s strategic service priorities. A substantial portion of the CIP relates to Street Improvements and Water Resources projects. Additional amounts are planned for Parks and Recreation projects, Libraries and Fire Stations. While the substantial portion of the CIP is funded by bonds and Enterprise Fund operations, the CIP is also funded by grant revenue, including community contributions, community development efforts, transit and other sources. During the 10 year planning period, grants are projected to be available to support a variety of Transportation projects, including sidewalk construction, road projects, and transit

improvements. Total Grants funding in the CIP equates to $293 million, approximately 17% of the total CIP. Unauthorized bond funding represents 29.8% of the current plan. The CIP also includes $9.4 million categorized as other revenue. This includes private donations and financing through Certificates of Participation. One major project funded partially through Other Revenue will be the planned performing arts center.

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