The Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum reopened Saturday, bringing changes that benefit the collections and the public, after a year-long restoration project.

The museum closed its doors in July last year for the $8 million project that included a new HVAC system, restoration of old collections and new displays. The project is finished, and the museum is hosting a grand opening 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday with a family day theme including crafts and live music.

The Pioneers Museum, at 215 S. Tejon St., is located in the restored 1903 El Paso County Courthouse. The museum preserves the history and culture of the Pikes Peak region, with permanent exhibits on the history of the area.

Matt Mayberry, director of the Pioneers Museum, said the project’s primary purpose was building the HVAC system to protect its collections, which were, prior to closing, under threat of damage because the museum couldn’t control the humidity in display rooms, causing many exhibits to be closed.

“The public may not really know that the HVAC is working better, but they will certainly be able to see many, many, many more of our collection items on exhibit, and this will give us room for growth in years to come,” he said.

The restoration also has given the museum the opportunity to renovate areas that were previously closed to the public, including a room that’s been shuttered since the museum purchased the building in the 1970s.

Three new exhibits are set to debut, including the museum’s feature exhibit “50% of the Story: Women Expressing Creativity.”

Old exhibits have been freshened up, but the museum has kept its collections as authentic as possible. Mayberry said there have been surprises made to a few exhibits that people will have to find.

All changes were done with Americans with Disabilities Act accommodations in mind, including changes to the front desk and a new bathroom on the first floor to be more accessible.

The museum will be open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays. Admission is free.

People can visit the museum’s website for more information.