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Memphis Zoo Northwest Passage
Project Information
- Project Location:
- Memphis, TN
- Status:
- Completed
- Structure Type:
- Park / Playground
References
- Architect:
- SSR Ellers Inc.
Scope Of Work
THE CHALLENGE
The zoo wanted to build a new tribute to the animals – The Northwest Passage – home to polar bears, sea lions, black bears, bald eagles and ravens. The Memphis Zoo is one of the most frequented attractions in Memphis due in large part to visitors’ ability to encounter animals in an up close and personal way. The zoo needed construction to take place within the confines of the zoo with minimal disruption to the daily operation of the facility
THE RESULTS
We built several exhibits and habitats mimicking the natural habitats of the animals. The Northwest Passage includes a large underwater viewing area allowing guests to watch sea lions and polar bears, a 500-seat amphitheater for shows and educational classes, accommodations for the more than 500,000 gallons of purified fresh and saltwater for the animals, and large plastic “bubbles” on the side of the sea lion pool which give viewers the sensation of being inside the exhibit.