Children's zoo to open Aug. 17

Birmingham Business Journal

June 27, 2002

The first phase of the Birmingham Zoo's first expansion in 20 years -- an $8 million addition for children -- will open to the public Aug. 17.

The 5.5-acre Junior League of Birmingham-Hugh Kaul Children's Zoo will showcase animals native to Alabama in urban and rural settings, as well as educational and conservation-focused exhibits. Attractions include a 60-foot-long replica of an Alabama stream, an authentic Alabama barn and a carousel.

The total cost of the expansion has been growing ever since it was announced at $5 million in 2001. It grew to $6.2 million after adding an acre, then picked up another $600,000 after general contractor Golden & Associates Construction LLC began work. The zoo even raised admission rates in March to help cover the project's cost.

The project's second phase will open next spring. Giattina Fisher Aycock is the architect on both phases.

The zoo (http://www.birminghamzoo.com) has been located at 2630 Cahaba Road for nearly half a century. It is home to some 700 specimens.