Empire State Development (ESD) and Pioneer Works announced the completion of a $12.7 million renovation at the nonprofit cultural center’s 25,000-square-foot building in Red Hook, Brooklyn.
The upgrades, which include full ADA accessibility and infrastructure enhancements, aim to expand the center’s programming and strengthen its role as a hub for arts, science, and community engagement, according to a press release.
With $2.3 million in state support, the renovation modernized the 150-year-old former ironworks factory while preserving its industrial heritage. The project also improved accessibility in the adjoining 20,000-square-foot garden, ensuring all visitors can fully engage with Pioneer Works’ offerings.
"Pioneer Works exemplifies how cultural institutions serve as powerful engines of both economic growth and social progress. This transformation of a historic Brooklyn landmark into a cutting-edge center for artistic and scientific innovation does more than preserve our industrial heritage – it creates a dynamic space where creativity, technology, and community converge," said Hope Knight, ESD president, CEO, and commissioner.
"Through strategic state investments, we're ensuring that groundbreaking ideas and opportunities for discovery are accessible to every New Yorker, reinforcing our commitment to equitable development across the Empire State."
Pioneer Works CEO Mara Manus emphasized the project’s alignment with the center’s mission to create an inclusive space.
"The central aim of this undertaking is to better reflect and support the diverse needs of our growing community in the architecture and design of our space," said Manus.
"These critical accessibility improvements enable significant transformations to Pioneer Works' infrastructure, aligning with our mission to foster the free exchange of ideas through programming that is open and accessible to all."
Since its founding in 2012, Pioneer Works has provided free, interdisciplinary programming, attracting over 50,000 visitors annually. Its initiatives span visual and performing arts, music, and science, engaging the community through workshops, continuing education classes, and K-12 STEAM programs.
The renovations include an elevator connecting three floors of creative spaces, state-of-the-art climate control systems for year-round programming, and accessible pathways through the garden. These improvements enhance visitor experiences, allowing greater participation in gallery exhibitions, workshops, outdoor performances, and educational events.
Senator Andrew Gournardes said the renovations were more than about giving the building a facelift, but the empowerment of New Yorkers who would access use and benefit from it.
"We are immensely grateful to Governor Hochul and the state for their support. This funding allows us to redouble our efforts to serve an incredible community of artists, students, scientists, musicians, and writers in Red Hook and greater Brooklyn," said Pioneer Works Board Co-Vice Chair David Belt.
