BENTONVILLE, Ark. (KNWA / KFTA) – Representatives from the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art announced on Wednesday that the museum will be expanding over the next few years. Visit Bentonville’s executive director said she thinks this will boost tourism in the area.

“It’s been having a huge impact on our community,” said Kalene Griffith, the CEO. “It will attract more people than we’ve seen in the past.”

The expansion will more than double the gallery space, add a new bridge between two galleries, install a new temporary exhibition area and educational rooms.

“[It’ll bring] A coffee shop and lots of new outdoor spaces so it’s really exciting, ”said Rod Bigelow, Executive Director of Crystal Bridges.

Griffith said the extension will be seen in both the museum and tourism.

“The best thing for us is that we can introduce Crystal Bridges and Bentonville to visitors around the world,” said Griffith.

Alice Walton, daughter of famed Sam Walton and founder of Crystal Bridges, said the extension gives children more opportunities that they otherwise would not have.

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