Tuesday, the end of 2002 brought with it the final day of operation for the Packer Hall of Fame at the only location its ever known, the Brown County Veterans Memorial Complex.

Beginning with the new year, the Packer Hall of Fame will prepare for the move to its new facility inside the Titletown Atrium at Lambeau Field.

Part of the $295 million renovation of the Packers' facilities which began in 2000, the new Packer Hall of Fame will open in time for the beginning of the 2003 football season.

"This is a very exciting step for Packers fans," said Packers director of administrative affairs Mark Schiefelbein. "The Hall of Fame is a natural fit to be at Lambeau Field and really completes the atrium."

The 25,000-square foot facility will include more exhibitory space than its predecessor. Also up will be the number of interactive audio/visual elements.

The original facility opened in 1975 at 17,000 square feet and was dedicated by President Gerald Ford in 1976. There were several renovations over the years including a 7,000-square foot expansion in 1981, a $750,000 renovation in 1990 and a $1.6 million renovation and expansion in 1997.

More than 2 million visitors have enjoyed the Packer Hall of Fame over the years, including a record 259,000 in 1997, when the Packers shrine surpassed Canton's Pro Football Hall of Fame in annual attendance.