After almost 15 years in Salt Lake City, The Leonardo museum has announced that it is permanently closing.
In a statement posted on the museum’s webpage, the institution said its decision comes after years of challenges from its 61-year-old building.
“Critical infrastructure necessary for The Leonardo to operate, including the escalators, elevators, and plumbing, has reached the end of its serviceable life,” the statement reads.
“Despite efforts with the city and dedicated vendors, these issues could not be overcome,” it continues, without citing more specific detail.
The museum in June first sent an announcement to patrons that it was closing for repairs for the foreseeable future.
Lisa Davis, who chairs The Leonardo’s board, wrote in an email at the time that malfunctioning elevators, for instance, made for limited access to exhibits and programs, making it difficult for the museum to generate revenue from events.
The science and art museum in its closing announcement encouraged “all who have been inspired by The Leonardo to continue fostering creativity, curiosity, and innovation in Utah and beyond.”
It’s unclear what may happen to Ken Sanders’ Rare Books, which sits inside the museum and had remained opened during the museum’s initial extended closure. The bookstore is celebrating its 50th anniversary Sunday at Fisher Brewing.