Construction begins on accessible entrance to KU Natural History Museum

LAWRENCE — Construction has begun on the new accessible entrance at the University of Kansas Natural History Museum, a donor-funded project designed to benefit all who visit.  

The updated entrance from Jayhawk Boulevard to Dyche Hall was financed through a $1 million gift from Jann and Tom Rudkin, announced in January 2026, to ensure this university destination would be as welcoming and accessible as possible. Any remaining funds after construction will go toward partial restoration of the museum’s historic Panorama exhibit. 

“The new entrance aligns with our mission to provide access to all communities of biodiversity learners and museum visitors that we strive to reach,” said Nico Franz, professor and Krishtalka Director for the Biodiversity Institute and Natural History Museum.  

The project is being designed by PGAV Architects of Kansas City, with B.A. Green Construction serving as general contractor.

During construction, fencing will be installed in front of Dyche Hall. Visitors may continue using the building’s front steps until early fall. The sidewalk south of Dyche Hall will be closed periodically.

Construction is expected to be completed during the fall 2026 semester. Follow project updates through NHM social media.

The KU Natural History Museum is part of the Biodiversity Institute, a KU-designated research center studying the biological diversity of life on Earth. Its collections rank among the 30 largest in the world with curated research collections of more than 11 million plant, animal and fossil specimens and 2 million cultural artifacts.  

The museum is located in historic Dyche Hall, 1345 Jayhawk Blvd., and is open to the public 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday. Suggested donations are $7 for adults and $4 for children. Members and KU students are free.