The Pleasure Driveway and Park District of Peoria, Illinois (Peoria Park District) is in the process of soliciting Letters of Interest and qualification information for design and construction documents and construction observation phase services for exhibit modifications at Peoria Zoo located at 2320 N Prospect Road in Peoria, Illinois. PROJECT BACKGROUND & SCOPE:
Peoria Zoo, formerly known as Glen Oak Zoo, opened in 1955 and is owned and operated by the Peoria Park District. The Zoo sits in historic Glen Oak Park, and is adjacent to Luthy Botanical Garden and the Peoria PlayHouse Children's Museum. Peoria Zoo has been accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums since 1976, adhering to rigorous standards of animal care and conservation. A major renovation of the Zoo was completed in 2009, bringing the Africa! exhibit and almost doubling the footprint of the Zoo. As 2024 approaches, the Zoo plans to renovate elements of the existing facility to include the historic Tropics Building which is no longer up to standards of modern zoological parks, a
modernized tiger exhibit, an entry plaza, and redevelopment of the Asia exhibit. These renovations will bring the remainder of the zoo up to the world-class standards set by Africa. Desired scope of work shall include the following elements:
1. Conceptual Design: The designer will create a vision and plan using the parameters of the recently approved master plan. This plan will include the layout of new exhibits, pathways, visitor amenities, and other features. Conceptual design drawings, sketches, and renderings might be included to help stakeholders visualize the proposed changes. 2. Site Analysis and Assessment: The designer will conduct a thorough analysis of the current zoo site, considering factors like topography, existing infrastructure, vegetation, access points, and more, in order to effectively inform the design decisions and help identify opportunities and challenges for the renovation. 3. Exhibit Designs: The designer will create detailed plans, drawings, and specifications for these exhibits, ensuring they are safe, functional, and provide a high-quality environment for the animals. 4. Landscape Design: The landscape around the exhibits and pathways will also be part of the renovation. The designer will develop landscape plans that include planting designs, hardscape elements (such as paths, seating areas, and water features), and sustainability considerations. 5. Visitor Experience and Amenities: Designers will work on enhancing the visitor experience by planning amenities such as restrooms, food and beverage areas, seating, visitor engagement, spaces for temporary exhibits and/or rentals, and educational spaces. They will ensure that these areas are strategically located for optimal visitor flow and revenue generation. 6. Wayfinding and Signage: Navigating the renovated zoo should be intuitive for visitors. Designers will create a wayfinding strategy, including signage, maps, and directional markers, to guide visitors through the zoo and provide information about exhibits, animals, and facilities that is consistent with the parts of the zoo not included in the renovation. 7. Sustainability and Environmental Considerations: Designers will integrate sustainable practices into the renovation plan, incorporating energy-efficient technologies, waste reduction strategies, water conservation methods, and materials with low environmental impact. 8. Budgeting and Phasing Strategy: The designer will work with the Peoria Park District and fundraising team to develop a budget for the renovation project and create a phased implementation plan. This plan will outline which components of the renovation will be tackled in each phase of the capital campaign. 9. Construction and Bidding Documentation: Detailed bidding and construction documents will be created for each aspect of the renovation, including architectural plans, engineering drawings, specifications, and any necessary permits. 10. 3D Visualizations and Presentations: To communicate the renovation plans effectively to stakeholders, the designer shall create 3D visualizations, animations, and presentations that showcase the proposed changes in a realistic and engaging manner. It is anticipated that design will begin in 2024 with phased construction to begin as early as 2025.
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