Wednesday, March 6, 2013

March Construction Updates

With the reconstruction of the Giant Ocean Tank more than halfway over, we're beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel. In fact, a major component of the new tank is in place now—windows! 

Come take a look. Let's walk behind the scenes and inside the empty Giant Ocean Tank to see the progress that's been made in the last couple weeks.



As you can see, all but one of the windows are in place and the coral has been uncovered in preparation for all the refurbishments. But don't let the quiet surroundings in the video deceive you! During work hours, it's a flurry of activity in the construction zone. Crews are busy installing a dramatic domed ceiling above the space as well as the clear railing that will surround the top of the Giant Ocean Tank, which will be great for our littest visitors! 

The protective covering will remain on the windows during construction.

The windows at the top of the Giant Ocean Tank, seen here, are almost 2 inches thick. Closer to the bottom they are more like 3 three inches thick!
We're so excited that construction is moving ahead on schedule! In fact, later this month we'll be able to take down the protective fabric that covers the outside of the tank and you'll be able to see the windows (and their protective coverings) for yourself.

Special construction pricing means you can keep tabs on the construction as well as visit with some of your favorite animals—like the little blue penguins, the octopus and the mandarinfish! But discounted admission won't last forever. Now's the time! Will you be able to tell your friends and family that you visited the Aquarium during their most important renovations in years?

7 comments:

  1. That’s a really thick glass. A bullet may not even get through it. We’re looking forward on seeing the complete venue.

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  2. I remember when the tank was originally installed (a long time ago!)and had all the leakage problems. It's nice to see it finally getting a rehab!

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  3. Where have the sea turtles gone until its ready?

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    1. You'll be happy to know that visitors can still see the sea turtles — including Myrtle — at the Aquarium, even during construction! The turtles and all the other animals from the Giant Ocean Tank are temporarily in the penguin exhibit, so visitors can see them from above and truly appreciate how big they are.

      Here's a video of Myrtle's moving day back in September: http://news.neaq.org/2012/09/transformation-in-progress-make-way-for.html

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  4. When will the renovations be over probably?

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  5. When is the construction going to be done. My family and I are planning a trip for July and hope its back up and running!

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    1. Out central exhibit, which is the major exhibit under construction, is expected to reopen in early July, though the exact date depends on the progress of construction over the next couple months. Either way, the Aquarium will be open and we'll have lots to see, but I do hope that you're able to enjoy the new Giant Ocean Tank!

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