The LeMay Museum has announced it will break ground on its $58 million facility Thurs., June 10 during a public ceremony 3 p.m. at the Tacoma Dome parking lot. The event will be preceded by a parade of collector cars from Marymount and Club Auto Kirkland to the new site, as well as other caravans of cars from other locations including the museum’s Fife property. Following the ceremony, the public is invited to Club Auto Tacoma in Fife for a party with a live band, beverages and snacks. Join local dignitaries, politicos, volunteers, members, staff and the general public for this “come one, come all” event.

After nearly a decade in development, this significant milestone was reached when the Board of Directors unanimously voted to commence construction on what is billed as the largest automotive museum in North America. “This is an enormous step forward in our efforts to establish [the museum],” said the museum’s president and chief executive officer. “Building this contemporary home for our institution will act as a centering point for like-minded enthusiasts.”

“To achieve this important milestone in the current economic environment is a tribute to the creativity and dedication of all those who have tirelessly worked to see the LeMay vision become a reality,” added Michael Phillips, chairman of the museum’s board of directors.

With the beginning of construction, the Museum will now concentrate on a “Race to the Finish” campaign, which will focus on exhibit and educational program development in preparation for the museum’s grand opening in summer 2011.

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For earlier Tacoma Daily Index coverage, click on the following links:

Resolution would approve loan agreement for LeMay Museum — http://tacomadailyindex.com/portals-code/list.cgi?paper=88&cat=23&id=1753852&more=0

LeMay selects general contractor for new museum — http://tacomadailyindex.com/portals-code/list.cgi?paper=88&cat=23&id=1624416&more=0

LeMay Car Museum shifts into gear — http://tacomadailyindex.com/portals-code/list.cgi?paper=88&cat=23&id=1548804&more=0

LeMay Museum Board approves financing plan — http://tacomadailyindex.com/portals-code/list.cgi?paper=88&cat=23&id=1546707&more=0