Fresno Chaffee Zoo
Zooplex
Location
Fresno
Sq. Ft.
17,975
Year Completed
2022
Construction Partner
BMY Construction
The Fresno Chaffee Zoo has an animal population of over 190 species, each with specific dietary needs. The new Zooplex functions as a commissary for its resident animals, adding the necessary infrastructure to ensure the health and vitality of the animals. The commissary provides storage for dry, cold, and live prey, as well as separate preparation areas to accommodate the vast variety of dietary requirements.
The Zooplex also functions as a multipurpose building. A series of stakeholder meetings provided input from all user groups to gain an understanding of the workflow and the specialized spaces required for this unique program. Employees now have access to a common break room with a kitchen and patio, as well as laundry and changing rooms. When overnight care for animals is required, zoo staff or visiting keepers can stay on site in a well-appointed studio apartment. The second floor provides much-needed centralized office, work, and conference spaces for zoo administration and operations.
While not part of the day-to-day visitor experience, the Zooplex site and building orientation make it visible from several exhibits. It was designed to complement the zoo’s aesthetics without drawing attention away from the surrounding exhibits and reinforcing the high-quality architectural character that has come to define the Fresno Chaffee Zoo. It is conveniently located and designed to accommodate the circulation of large trucks for unloading and receiving.
A photovoltaic array covers the south-facing roof, emphasizing the zoo’s commitment to sustainability. Other sustainable strategies include the use of locally sourced insulated masonry, drought-tolerant plant material, and solar tubes to illuminate interior spaces with abundant natural light.
The Fresno Chaffee Zoo is undergoing a fundamental transformation from a local attraction to an award-winning facility recognized far beyond the San Joaquin Valley as a place that educates, entertains, conserves, and sustains both local wildlife and animals from outside the area. Infrastructure, like the Zooplex, is crucial to supporting their continued growth and good work.
