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New Orleans Jazz Museum to Expand with $35M Renovation

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  Published in Stocks and Investing on Saturday, February 21st 2026 at 22:43 GMT by WGNO
      Locales: Louisiana, UNITED STATES

New Orleans, LA - February 22nd, 2026 - The New Orleans Jazz Museum is poised to undergo a dramatic transformation with the commencement of a $35 million expansion and renovation project, officials announced Friday. The ambitious undertaking promises not only to modernize the museum's facilities but also to solidify its position as a cornerstone of cultural preservation and a vibrant hub for jazz education and appreciation.

Located within the historically significant Beauregard-Keyes House and the venerable Old U.S. Mint, the museum has quickly become a beloved destination for both local residents and the millions of tourists who flock to New Orleans annually. Since its opening in 2009, the museum has diligently worked to showcase the evolution of jazz, from its humble beginnings in the late 19th and early 20th centuries to its current global influence. However, limitations in space and infrastructure have hindered its ability to fully realize its potential.

The upcoming project, funded through a collaborative effort involving public funding from the city and state, coupled with generous private donations, aims to address these limitations head-on. The centerpiece of the expansion will be a state-of-the-art Welcome Center, designed to provide visitors with an immersive introduction to the world of jazz and the museum's offerings. This space will not only serve as an information hub but also as a dynamic area for introductory performances and interactive exhibits.

Beyond the Welcome Center, the renovation will encompass a complete overhaul of the museum's exhibit spaces. Current exhibits, while well-received, are somewhat constrained by the existing layout. The redesign will allow for a more comprehensive and chronological presentation of jazz history, incorporating a wider range of artifacts, instruments, recordings, and multimedia presentations. Plans include dedicated spaces for highlighting the contributions of legendary New Orleans jazz musicians such as Louis Armstrong, Jelly Roll Morton, and Sidney Bechet, as well as a spotlight on contemporary artists carrying the torch for future generations.

Perhaps most significantly, the project will substantially enhance the museum's educational facilities. Recognizing the importance of nurturing future generations of jazz enthusiasts and musicians, the museum will create dedicated classrooms and workshop spaces equipped with modern technology. These spaces will host a variety of programs, including music lessons, masterclasses led by renowned jazz professionals, and interactive workshops for students of all ages and skill levels. The museum intends to partner with local schools and universities to offer specialized educational initiatives.

"This project represents a monumental step forward in our efforts to celebrate and preserve the rich legacy of jazz music," stated Michael Shepherd, president of the New Orleans Jazz Museum. "These improvements will enhance the museum's ability to connect with audiences of all ages and backgrounds. We are committed to making jazz accessible to everyone, and this expansion will allow us to do just that."

The project also prioritizes accessibility and inclusivity. Upgrades to the museum's infrastructure will ensure that all visitors, regardless of physical ability, can fully enjoy the exhibits and programs. This includes improved wheelchair access, assistive listening devices, and tactile exhibits for visually impaired guests. The museum is striving to become a model for inclusive cultural institutions.

The ambitious 18-month construction timeline will require a temporary partial closure of certain areas of the museum. However, officials are committed to minimizing disruption and maintaining at least a limited offering of exhibits and programs throughout the renovation period. A series of pop-up exhibits and off-site events are being planned to keep the public engaged during the construction phase.

Looking ahead, the expanded New Orleans Jazz Museum is expected to become an even more significant economic driver for the city, attracting a larger number of tourists and generating revenue for local businesses. More importantly, it will serve as a vital cultural resource, ensuring that the spirit and legacy of jazz continue to thrive for generations to come. The museum's commitment to education and preservation will not only honor the past but also inspire the future of this uniquely American art form.