Media Release | October 27, 2027
Brainstorms
Community support reinforces the need for family-centered destinations in downtown New Port Richey
NEW PORT RICHEY, FL — Following Monday evening’s Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Board meeting, Brainstorms Science Discovery Center acknowledges the CRA Board’s decision to direct city staff to begin negotiations with Main Street Reserve for the redevelopment of the Main & Bank property.
While Brainstorms was not selected to move forward in negotiations, the organization remains committed to its vision of establishing an accessible, family-centered science discovery center in downtown New Port Richey.
Brainstorms submitted its proposal with the belief that downtown redevelopment should be measured not only by its economic potential, but also by the opportunities it creates for the people who live here.
A science discovery center would bring children, families, educators, and visitors downtown throughout the week, creating opportunities for local businesses while expanding access to hands-on science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) education.
Throughout the proposal process, Brainstorms received an outpouring of community support, reflecting a shared desire for a downtown that welcomes people of all ages.
That support matters, regardless of the CRA Board’s decision.
“We didn’t propose a science discovery center downtown simply because we needed a building. We proposed it because we believe children and families belong at the center of our community’s future, and downtown should reflect that,” said Daisy Thomas, Vice President of the Brainstorms Board of Directors.
The Main & Bank property represented an opportunity to establish a permanent educational and cultural destination in the heart of the city. Brainstorms continues to believe that downtown is an appropriate home for such an institution, particularly given its proximity to Sims Park, the public library, local businesses, and other community gathering spaces.
The CRA Board’s decision also raises a broader question about the future of downtown New Port Richey: What kind of community are we building, and who is being invited to participate in it?
Brainstorms believes a thriving downtown must offer more than dining and nightlife. It must also create reasons for families to visit, children to explore, and residents to build lasting connections with their community.
The organization appreciates the time and consideration given to its proposal and extends its gratitude to the residents, families, educators, business owners, and community leaders who expressed their support.
Although negotiations will proceed with another proposer, Brainstorms’ work continues. The organization remains focused on expanding educational programming, developing community partnerships, and pursuing opportunities to establish a permanent home for hands-on discovery in New Port Richey.
The decision about one property does not diminish the need for what Brainstorms is building, nor the community’s demonstrated desire to see it succeed.
About Brainstorms Science Discovery Center
Brainstorms Science Discovery Center is a New Port Richey-based nonprofit organization dedicated to making science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics accessible through hands-on learning, creative exploration, and community engagement. Brainstorms works to inspire curiosity, encourage discovery, and create educational opportunities for children and families throughout the community.
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