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Mütter Museum Sets $27 Million Expansion, Construction to Begin in 2026

The plan links the campus to the former Swedenborgian church next door to add galleries, classrooms, and fully accessible entry.

Overview

  • The College of Physicians of Philadelphia has secured $27 million for the first phase of a multi-stage campus expansion and renovation.
  • Design firm MGA Partners and project managers Becker & Frondorf are leading the effort to create a cohesive campus.
  • Construction is scheduled to start in early 2026 in stages, with core gallery work expected in 2027 to limit disruption to visitors and neighbors.
  • The project will connect the current building to the 1881 Swedenborgian Church at 2129 Chestnut Street via a glass connector with accessible entrances, expanding galleries, classrooms, event spaces, and the museum store.
  • The overhaul follows a two-year ethical review of human-remains displays and leadership changes, with CEO Larry Kaiser now in place and co-directors Erin McLeary and Sara Ray guiding plans to preserve the Victorian aesthetic while upgrading casework and labels.