Project Overview
BKBM provided structural and civil engineering design services for a comprehensive upgrade to the existing gorilla exhibit, supporting new animal care and enhanced visitor experiences at the zoo. The project included improvements to the existing building, construction of a new gorilla holding building, a visitor viewing structure, two state-of-the-art gorilla exhibits with mesh canopies, and a heavy timber-framed view blind.
Project Highlights
- Exhibit and Facility Expansion:
- Added a new gorilla holding building connected to the south side of the existing structure, providing expanded animal care spaces with natural light and elevated benches for outdoor visibility.
- Designed a new public viewing structure with a sloped steel roof and steel roof deck for a dynamic visitor experience.
- Enhanced Site Redevelopment:
- Civil design redeveloped 1.25 acres, including the building addition, renovated exhibit area, and surrounding plazas.
- Coordinated site grades and landscape with the landscape architect, integrated utility design, and developed an underground stormwater management system for the total disturbed area.
- Structural & Specialty Features:
- New holding building and viewing structure featured cast-in-place walls on spread/strip footings, precast plank floors, and precast roof systems over gorilla areas.
- Elevated public walkway to the viewing structure designed using steel tubes, steel grating, composite lumber decking, and helical pier-supported grade beams.
- Heavy timber view blind constructed with round posts and beams concealed by bamboo, directly behind steel framing and concrete foundations supporting exhibit mesh and visitor windows.
- Collaborated with specialty engineer to coordinate mesh canopy attachment points for the new gorilla exhibits.
Engineering Solutions
BKBM delivered robust, animal- and visitor-friendly structural systems while collaborating across disciplines for smooth site redevelopment. Critical grading, drainage, and utility upgrades were paired with innovative exhibit and public space design—supporting both animal welfare and an immersive, safe, and memorable zoo experience.
Results & Impact
The upgraded gorilla habitat and new visitor features provide state-of-the-art care environments for the animals and captivating engagement for the public. BKBM’s seamless integration of site, structure, and specialty elements has elevated the zoo’s offerings and set a new standard for exhibit design in St. Paul.
1967
15,000+
23
Minneapolis & Denver