Submitted Photo The first floor of the Magic City Discovery Center includes an educational play area for the youngest visitors. First floor galleries will reopen to the public on Monday. Photo from MCDC.

Following partial recovery from a catastrophic pipeline break on Feb. 20, Magic City Discovery Center will reopen its first and second floor galleries on Monday.

The late night pipe break and water leak during last week’s extended frigid spell caused extensive water damage on the first and lower levels of the center, said spokesperson Abigail Arnold, marketing coordinator for MCDC.

“For the most part, everything was able to be cleaned up,” she said of the first floor. The lower level, which houses the water features gallery, remains closed as repairs continue. Exhibits came through the disaster, but Arnold said drywall and bathrooms were damaged on both floors.

MCDC, a local nonprofit, provides hands-on learning in science, technology, engineering, art and math to children through activities that are engaging for all ages.

The recent setback has been devastating for the center, according to a news release about the incident.

“Upon discovering the leak, MCDC immediately contacted insurance providers and disaster restoration companies to begin the process of assessing and mitigating the damage,” the release stated. “Despite these efforts, the center is facing unforeseen expenses and a significant revenue loss as a result of the closure, which has disrupted its operations. MCDC is grateful for the support of our community as we navigate this unexpected challenge. If you’d like to help us reopen as quickly as possible, donations of any size will directly support repairs, restoration, and continued operations.”

MCDC will need to cover its insurance deductible as well as recoup revenue losses.

“We are doing everything we can to get back up and running, but the costs associated with this unexpected event are considerable,” Allan Pearson, MCDC president, said in the release. “We are committed to reopening the Discovery Center as soon as possible. We appreciate any help we can get during this time. The children and families who visit the museum are at the heart of what we do, and we are focused on getting back to providing them with a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience.”

Until the lower level reopens, MCDC is offering tickets at a discounted price.

The broken pipe was on an outside wall. Arnold said MCDC’s insurer is looking into what can be done to prevent future pipeline breaks during cold weather.