The Waco City Council received an update Tuesday on the Bledsoe-Miller STEAM Center, a community-driven project designed to enhance educational opportunities in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM). Since breaking ground in January, the center has made significant strides in its development.
Phase 1 of the project, now completed, focused on establishing partnerships and developing a network of local and regional collaborators. The development team is now seeking council approval to move into Phase 2, which will run from March to May.
The next phase will concentrate on building an inclusive curriculum and designing programs tailored for diverse audiences. The center aims to provide hands-on learning experiences through an immersive lab, recording studio, and interactive workshops, catering to students and families across Waco.
As part of the STEAM Center’s vision, project leaders revealed the design for an innovative playground inspired by space exploration. The playground will feature elements that allow all children, regardless of ability, to participate and engage in interactive play.
"Making sure that the playground equipment as you look around, whether it’s a seesaw or a swing, has inclusive elements so that all can play," said Jonathan Cook, Waco Parks and Recreation Director.
The Bledsoe-Miller STEAM Center aims to become a hub for innovation, creativity, and learning, providing opportunities for people of all ages to explore and engage in new ways.
Councilwoman Andrea Jackson Barefield highlighted the long-term impact the center will have on the community.
"Just unique opportunities to be able to go and see and do and touch and make. It’s transformational. And I think it’s going to change the face of how our future, our current generation, lead and advance and better Waco," Barefield said.
The STEAM Center remains on schedule for a pre-launch at the end of the year, with ongoing efforts to refine programming and facilities.
For more information about the Bledsoe-Miller STEAM Center, visit the City of Waco’s official website at waco-texas.com.
Abby Roper is a journalism student at Baylor University. She provided city council coverage as part of the KWBU-Baylor Student Journalism Collaboration.