SCI-PORT CHANGES – Shreveport’s Sci-Port Discovery Center is a popular riverfront attraction for families from all over the ArkLaTex. But despite that, the facility has had it’s share of financial problems in recent years, it has had to scale back its offerings after a state audit revealed Sci-Port wasn’t able to meet its financial obligations. At a press conference yesterday it was announced that a new management group will take over the reins in an attempt to pull things around. Community Foundation Executive Director Kristi Gustavson revealed the reason behind the move.
“We at the Community Foundation of North La. believe that the Sci-Port Discovery Center is a valuable science and education resource for the children of NW La. As a result, the Community Foundation along with outher community organizations and individuals plan to provide funding for a new non-profit entity titled Red River STEM Inc.”
The new non-profit must conclude an agreement with the City of Shreveport. Sci-Port's IMAX and Power of Play children's museum will remain open pending city approval of the new arrangement. The Community Foundation of North Louisiana is a major-grant funding organization that awards grants to many non-profits, including Red River Radio.