Philadelphia philanthropist H.F. (Gerry) Lenfest has offered a $40-million challenge grant to support the planned Museum of the American Revolution a few blocks from Independence Hall, The Philadelphia Inquirer writes.

The pledge was to be formally announced Tuesday as the American Revolution Center, the organization behind the project, unveiled a design for the museum by architect Robert A.M. Stern.

“We have the opportunity to build the first national museum dedicated to the American Revolution in the historic district of Philadelphia,” said Mr. Lenfest, a former telecommunications mogul who ranked No. 17 in The Chronicle of Philanthropy’s 2011 list of top American donors. “I think that’s the missing link in the chain of events that led to independence. So, I think it’s important to have it.”

The Lenfest grant, the prospective matching donations, and $30-million in capital funds authorized by the state would be sufficient to start construction, according to museum CEO Michael Quinn.