Naples Zoo Awards Expansion Project to Hometown Builder

Naples Zoo awarded a capital improvement project to Naples-based Waltbillig & Hood General Contractors to increase the zoo’s capacity while meeting its education and conservation mission.

The Finding Florida New Entrance and Visitor Complex expansion plans include a new entrance to the zoo, the Jeanne Guglielmi Welcome Center, the Hamill Family Education Center, a new gift shop, volunteer center and a complete upgrade of Alligator Bay. The 4-acre complex was inspired by the old Florida lifestyle and was designed by GLMV Architecture, a national zoo and aquarium architecture firm.

The design’s centerpiece is the Hamill Family Education Center. The Finding Florida New Entrance and Visitor Complex will feature new exhibits with native species in the Ann and Senator Rick Scott flamingo and roseate spoonbill exhibit. Additional components of the zoo project include new animal exhibits in the South American Trail experience, immersing guests in grassland and rainforest exhibits. Projects are underway and expected to take two years to complete.

Waltbillig & Hood is a full-service general contracting and construction management firm that specializes in health care and commercial projects ranging from medical offices and hospitals to multifamily construction, storage facilities, automotive dealerships, retail, office and industrial facilities. Information about Waltbillig & Hood is available at WH-gc.com, and details about Naples Zoo’s campaign are available at NaplesZoo.org/CapitalCampaign.