Emporia’s Imaginarium will not be moving into the former Graves Drugs space as was originally planned.
Ownership sent out a news release Wednesday afternoon announcing plans to sell the property at 609 Commercial Street after purchasing it last year. Original plans were to renovate the former local drug and convenience store to expand the “reach and impact” of the local STEM exploration center.
However, in the news release Wednesday, co-owner Melanie Curtis stated those plans required “several large pieces to come together at the same time, and that didn’t happen in the way needed to move forward responsibly.” Imaginarium will continue to operate out of its current home at 707 Commercial, which was meant to be a temporary location as it made the transition to the 609 location.
Co-owner Del Jacob says, “This decision allows us to focus our time, energy, and resources on serving families right now, while continuing to build toward Imaginarium’s long-term vision.” Since opening in the Emporia Main Street incubator space back in 2022, Imaginarium’s reach has grown steadily, serving more than 3,000 children locally through classes, camps, partnerships with local schools and community programming.
Curtis stated, “Our focus is on continuing to provide strong programming, build relationships in the community, and grow in sustainable ways. Regardless of location, we look forward to serving the community for years to come.” KVOE News has reached out to Imaginarium for additional comment on the decision.
The 609 location has sat vacant since the closing of Graves back in January of 2024, following the passing of longtime pharmacist and owner Glen Hadaway in June of 2023. For those interested in the property, it is currently valued at just over $240,000.
