The Pew Charitable Trusts has announced grants totaling $1.8 million to four civic institutions in the Philadelphia area.

The grants include $500,000 over three years to the Independence Visitor Center in support of facility enhancements such as interactive kiosks, refurbished customer service stations, and additional seating; and $500,000 over two years to the National Constitution Center for a permanent exhibit to raise awareness of the impact of the Civil War and Reconstruction period on the evolution of the U.S. Constitution. In addition, the Hagley Museum and Library was awarded $500,000 over three years to expand its services to businesses and trade associations and advance research and public knowledge of American entrepreneurship, while the American Philosophical Society will receive $300,000 over three years for a series of forums to be presented by the Consortium for History of Science, Technology, and Medicine dedicated to groundbreaking scientific developments and their impact on society.

"These investments build on Pew’s legacy of supporting distinguished institutions that are dedicated to promoting the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region and the nation," said Pew Charitable Trusts vice president Frazierita Klasen. "We are pleased to support their important contributions."