Monday, March 18, 2024

Kansas City Zoo receives Parks Board approval to proceed with $75 million aquarium

by Joe Kleiman, InPark News Editor

The Kansas City Board of Parks and Recreation Commissioners has approved construction of a $75 million aquarium at the Kansas City Zoo in Kansas City, Missouri. Approximately $60 million of the cost will be allocated to construction of the facility.

With construction beginning in 2021 and completion scheduled by 2023, the sixty thousand square foot exhibit will house 600,000 gallons of water spread over 30-35 exhibits.

According to architects EHDD: “The project uses the concept of marine currents as an interpretive framework.  This storyline presents a diverse aquatic collection in a way that is cohesive and meaningful.  It’s a story that relates to the dynamic nature of the habitats it portrays and offers a strong base for the zoo’s conservation and educational programs.

“The visitor path starts at a shallow tropical shore, follows a warm current into the melting pot of the deep ocean, and is carried via a cold current from the depths, through the ocean’s forests, emerging at a cool Pacific coast.  Architectural cues such as changing light quality, spatial variation, and physical descent augment unique exhibit designs to engage visitor’s emotions, spark their curiosity, and build in them a passion for the ocean.”

Images: EHDD

Joe Kleiman
Joe Kleimanhttp://wwww.themedreality.com
Raised in San Diego on theme parks, zoos, and IMAX films, InPark's Senior Correspondent Joe Kleiman would expand his childhood loves into two decades as a projectionist and theater director within the giant screen industry. In addition to his work in commercial and museum operations, Joe has volunteered his time to animal husbandry at leading facilities in California and Texas and has played a leading management role for a number of performing arts companies. Joe previously served as News Editor and has remained a contributing author to InPark Magazine since 2011. HIs writing has also appeared in Sound & Communications, LF Examiner, Jim Hill Media, The Planetarian, Behind the Thrills, and MiceChat His blog, ThemedReality.com takes an unconventional look at the attractions industry. Follow on twitter @ThemesRenewed Joe lives in Sacramento, California with his wife, dog, and a ghost.

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