Coca Cola has sponsored the addition of a “Hydration Station” at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville.
The station is a covered pavilion that will serve as a shelter for Crystal Bridges visitors awaiting the museum’s shuttle to the main entrance. It also houses vending machines offering Coca-Cola, Dasani, Powerade and other beverages for those waiting for the shuttle or walking the Crystal Bridges trails.
During 2013, more than 220,000 visitors enjoyed the museum’s 3.5 miles of trails on its 120-acre grounds.
“In different and distinct ways, both Coca-Cola and Crystal Bridges bring simple moments of happiness to people,” Sandy Douglas, president of Coca-Cola North America and global chief customer officer for The Coca-Cola Company, said in a statement. “This new Coca-Cola Hydration Station is a great way to enhance the Crystal Bridges experience for visitors. Whether they’re taking an active walk on the extensive trails or enjoying the many exhibits at this world-class museum, Coca-Cola is ready to offer refreshment.”
Crystal Bridges Executive Director Rod Bigelow said the station was “a much-welcome addition to the amenities of Crystal Bridges.”
The pavilion was constructed by Nabholz, and features concrete, native stone, metal, and Cor-ten steel. Vending areas for Coca-Cola beverages are paired with recycling stations, while bench seating is made from recycled PET bottles. Station signage includes a Crystal Bridges trail map.
Coca-Cola’s sponsorship of key Crystal Bridges’ initiatives began in 2011, when the corporation was a sponsor for the museum’s opening on Nov. 11, 2011.
“Coca-Cola has been very supportive of our mission to welcome all to celebrate the American spirit in a setting that unites the power of art with the beauty of nature,” said Bigelow. “Recently, when the Coca-Cola (3) painting debuted in our gallery, the company provided complimentary Coca-Cola in glass bottles to museum guests. We look forward to continuing to collaborate on inventive ways to enhance our guests’ museum experience.”