We come to this moment from different directions. But today we stand in the same park, seeing the same thing: Something extraordinary is happening on Chicago’s South Side.

For almost 100 years, the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry has been a place where generations have come together to learn, imagine and see themselves as part of something bigger.

And on June 19, the Obama Presidential Center joins in that tradition, attracting new energy, new visitors and new opportunities to the South Side.

As neighboring institutions that share deep commitments to education, public service and community impact, the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry and the Obama Presidential Center are already working together to ensure the best start possible for the new museum. The museum will close to the public on June 18 to help the Obama Presidential Center prepare for its grand opening. And then, on June 19 and beyond, we’ll jointly welcome thousands of visitors to this singular place — a place that’s already full of natural beauty and now will be even more accessible.

Consider what is now available in a single public park. The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry welcomed 1.5 million visitors last year,........

© The Korea Times