Stingray Bay
Brookfield Zoo, which is located on 216-acres in a suburb of Chicago, promotes both public education and entertainment on a year round basis. In keeping with this focus, the Stingray Bay Exhibit was brought to Brookfield Zoo for three months as an interactive saltwater showcase featuring marine life in a visual and educational display. The project began with the installation of the 40’x90’ clear span tent which would house the pool for the stingrays. As the 16,000 gallon saltwater touch pool was being installed, it was decided to add a lagoon area so the guests could gain access and actually touch the stingrays while providing a center area where the animals could rest. The 25’x55’ lagoon also incorporated a waterfall which extended out beyond the 40’ width of the proposed tent. Space limitations would only allow enlarging this area to 90’, which was still short 15’. A custom built 15’x10’ projection bump was used to extend the tent and accommodate the remaining 15’ of lagoon area.
A 40’x 80’ clear span tent was connected to the 40’x90’ tent and was used for the souvenir shop. 3,200 square feet of flooring was built under the souvenir tent and covered with green astro turf to make each visitors shopping experience more comfortable. Also installed were 19 decorative fans with lights to add to the Caribbean ambiance and the guest’s comfort. For additional seating a 60’x50’ outdoor café, sun deck and patio area was installed. The overall installation also involved two 10’x10’ covered walkways and four 10’x20’ entrance/exit ramps to ensure traffic flow.