With 14 of the 16 board members present, the group decided
to move forward with Option 3, keeping a portion of the sinkhole open, but
pending review of further information. This
option as it stands would include an opening approximately 25’ by 45’ wide, and
30’ deep, providing views down into a portion of the cave. The opening could have some existing ground
and rock face, and a dirt embankment where one or two of the cars could be
placed for display.
Each board member expressed how the decision was not about
them or what they thought but rather what is best for the Museum, and what most
of the members and visitors would want. “I
have a responsibility to represent the people who sent me here. We all do for
our geographic areas,” said a Board Member.
“My own personal opinion changed as time went on. I come here today with my marching orders
from my members. About two thirds of my
organization says to leave it open in some form or fashion,” he added.
After much discussion the Board decided that additional
information was necessary before making a final decision. Some changes discussed could affect the cost
estimate. More information was also
requested on the impact on the humidity in the room and potential impact on any
cars displayed within; the temperature control of the room and any associated
impact on the Museum’s utility costs; and review and consideration of any other
costs associated with the maintenance of the Skydome if the hole is left
partially open. The additional
information could result in the plans being modified.
Mike Murphy, C.E.O. of Scott, Murphy and Daniel Construction,
was on hand to answer questions and provide his feedback on the proposals. “You come in and you have all these displays
of the history and life of Corvette, and then you come into the Skydome to see
this new part of history,” said Murphy. “I
think it will always be a part of history, but will the increased attendance
continue? I don’t know, but it will
always be of high interest.”
As expected, the group deliberated greatly as to what is the
right decision.
Christy Thomas, CFO for the Museum, shared that an estimate
had been provided for filling in Option 3’s small portion of the sinkhole should
the Museum decide later to end the exhibit.
“If the interest in the exhibit wanes, or if down the road we decided
that we don’t want the hole any longer there is always an option to put the
room back how it was,” Thomas said.
Thomas shared with the Board some numbers – including a 59%
increase in the number of visitors from March to June 23, 2014 compared to the
same time period in 2013. The Museum has
also seen an increase of 71% in admissions income, 58% increase in Corvette
Store sales, 46% increase in Corvette Café sales, 72% increase in Membership
for a total of a 65% increase in these revenue areas overall.
“We have to look at
creative ways to generate interest in the Museum,” said Executive Director
Wendell Strode. “It would be so much easier to just be a regular
automotive museum with our Corvettes on display, but we have to think outside
the box.”
The construction plans also included eliminating the two
level display space that once existed in the Skydome, both making it easier to
get cars in and out, and increasing the number of cars that can be accommodated
for display.
“We only have one
chance to do this right. As a board, we
owe it to everyone to explore all possibilities, to completely investigate all
financial aspects and impacts, and to make a fully informed decision,” added
one Board Member.
Plans are still on track to leave the sinkhole and 8
Corvettes on display “as-is” through the end of August and then begin
construction in September. The Museum
will celebrate its 20th Anniversary with an event August 27-30, and
the Grand Opening of the NCM Motorsports Park is slated for August 28. “We have a lot to be thankful for right now,”
said Strode. “We really want to thank
all those who have stood by us during this difficult time, and we are looking
forward to celebrating with everyone in August! “
