For decades, 300 S. Tulane Ave in Oak Ridge has been home to the American Museum of Science and Energy, but now the U.S. Department of Energy is looking to dispose of the property.
Leigha Edwards with ORNL said that discussions about the future of the museum have been escalating recently.
"What we do at AMSE doesn't have to be done here," said Edwards. "We can do that in a number of ways."
Edwards added that the DOE wants to find the best route possible for continuing public outreach and education.
To do so, they have contacted the General Services Administration (GSA.)
The GSA is responsible for the disposition of all federal land.
That includes the museum and the land surrounding it.
On Monday, the Oak Ridge City Council approved a resolution that clears the way for the city to work to secure the American Museum of Science & Energy's site as part of a bid to boost commercial plans.
The resolution allows City Manager Mark Watson to negotiate with developer RealtyLink LLC and the DOE to acquire the 17-acre property, adjacent to the much-debated, oft-delayed Oak Ridge Main Street site.
RealtyLink urged city officials in a letter earlier this month to intervene.
RealtyLink is developing the former mall site and fears the museum site could be acquired for commercial use, creating competition for its project.
While AMSE will have to move locations, there's no word yet on a new location.
Edwards said the building has its challenges, like its age and size.
The proposed sale could take years to go through, she said.
"It could be multiple years, two to three at best," said Edwards.
Edwards said the museum will not leave the city of Oak Ridge.