Henry Doorly Zoo – Asian Highlands

Quick Facts

• 8 acres
• 2 year construction schedule
• 1,850-foot Asian themed pathway

Photo credit: REBECCA S. GRATZ / THE WORLD-HERALD

Services

• Geotechnical Engineering
• Materials Testing and Special Inspections

This 8-acre $22 million project transformed a previously undeveloped hillside of the zoo into two misty mountain trails that run alongside a two streams. Thiele Geotech, Inc. conducted multiple geotechnical explorations. The recommendations developed during the investigations included the overexcavation and surcharging the land after it was brought back to grade with suitable material. Massive amounts of shotcrete were used to build the perimeter walls, streams, and amphitheaters of the exhibit. During the construction phase, Thiele Geotech, Inc. observed reinforced concrete, retaining wall installation, structural masonry and welded and bolted connections. Materials testing was performed on soils, concrete, masonry, and shotcrete.