The Interactive Neighborhood for Kids is closed for the time being after its sprinkler system doused a fire over the weekend, causing water damage to some of the facility's exhibits.
The fire happened on Sunday, according to a press statement issued Tuesday morning.
Officials at the award winning children’s educational attraction were notified of a water incident by neighbors in the Featherbone Communiversity building. After an initial inspection by safety officials, it was determined the flooding was caused by sprinklers that engaged due to a small fire in the pottery studio area.
There was severe damage to INK's airplane and train areas, with water several inches deep in those areas.
"This is such an unfortunate event in the life of INK. Our dreams have been challenged for the moment. However, with the help of our loving community we will return to continue our mission to create a unique environment in which children of all ages, abilities and experiences can feel free to imagine, create and explore beyond their dreams," said INK Founder Sheri Hooper in a statement.
Damaged area includes exhibits, museum storage of future exhibits, electronics, and pottery being fired in coordination with the Georgia Mountain Food Bank’s Empty Bowl Luncheon Auction.
Concerned fans of INK can help by making donations here to the museum, visiting the gift shop which will remain open and staying tuned to the museum’s Facebook Page for other opportunities to lend a hand. INK exhibits will remain closed while the staff works to recover from the flood damage.
