Yellowknife (Aug 09/06) - The Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre was supposed to open its doors again this August.

But, due to renovation delays, the aim is to have everything ready for September.

Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre director Chuck Arnold stands in an empty room where the Northern orientation exhibit will be put for tourists or people new to the area. - Jessica Gray/NNSL photo

"Right after Labour Day weekend," said director Chuck Arnold.

Calling the delay "a series of small set backs," Arnold said workers still need to finish painting, add new carpet and fix the plumbing.

They also have to install new and old exhibits for display.

The museum revitalization project is in its third year and will cost $9.6 million.

Arnold said he realizes the museum wasn't open during its busiest season, but he is looking forward to promoting its new look with several events from September to December.

The first will feature famous Cree artist Allen Sapp. The exhibit will feature paintings and Cree artifacts on loan from the Allen Sapp gallery in Saskatchewan.

Arnold said he is hoping Sapp will attend when the exhibit opens in mid-September.

But all was not lost for those looking to access the museum over the summer.

Arnold said the museum website is more popular than ever. "Its use is up quite a bit over the last few months," he said.

Arnold said the renovations have extended the life of the museum by 25 years.

The three year project included replacing the air handling unit, building new administration offices, and re-vamping older displays along with the installation of new exhibits.