Phoenix Zoo’s Big Cats Exhibit Now Open

The Phoenix Zoo’s Big Cats Exhibit is officially open, marking a proud milestone in thoughtful design, collaborative effort, and community-centered engineering.

At WOODPATEL, we were honored to contribute our civil engineering expertise to this visionary project—one that balances the complex needs of animals, staff, and guests within a single, unified environment. From the earliest stages of development, our focus was on building resilient, sustainable infrastructure that would support both the mission of the Zoo and the well-being of its new residents.

Infrastructure with Purpose

Our work on the Big Cats Exhibit included:

• Grading and drainage systems designed for long-term durability and minimal environmental impact

• Utility coordination that ensures seamless operations behind the scenes

• ADA-compliant pathways that improve accessibility and enhance the overall guest experience

Every engineering decision was made with care, function, and safety in mind—not only for the animals and caretakers, but for the countless families and visitors who will connect with this space for years to come.

A Shared Vision for Conservation and Community

The Big Cats Exhibit is more than a habitat—it’s a living classroom, a conservation statement, and a powerful example of how public spaces can blend design, engineering, and education. It stands as a testament to what’s possible when mission-driven organizations and design professionals work together to build with purpose.

We extend our gratitude to the Phoenix Zoo, the generous donors, and our dedicated project partners for their trust and collaboration throughout this process.

• Architectural Design by Weddle Gilmore Architects

At WOODPATEL, we are proud to be part of projects that make a lasting difference—engineering not just for today, but for generations to come.