In 1991 Discovery Center of Springfield was incorporated. Over the next six years the volunteer board of directors and other committed community volunteers planned the building purchase and renovation, exhibits and program development and business operation. Since its opening in January 1998, the DCS has developed and added a great number of programs and exhibits. Collaboration has been the key to the success of this regional facility. Likewise, it is critical that the DCS partners with other agencies, individuals, foundations and businesses to achieve their respective goals. The DCS has established itself as a leader in the region of unique and engaging educational experiences. In 2000, they completed a master plan process and determined it was time to begin planning for expansion. In September 2006 DCS celebrated the opening of a new 30,000 sq. ft. LEED Gold certified building expansion with additional exhibits. This expansion and the educational messages evident throughout the building have led the way to an impressive environmental sustainability movement in this area.
