The John Ball Zoo Society is currently building its newest exhibit, Lions of Lake Manyara. Moore & Bruggink has served the Zoo as the site civil engineer for the new exhibit, which consists of two semi-enclosed viewing structures and a 25 foot high viewing platform that will overlook the exhibit. Features such as a waterfall, stream, and concrete tree and rock structures that will be heated and cooled for the lions' comfort make this a truly unique exhibit. A new training and holding building will be built just off the back side of the exhibit. Construction the new exhibit involved many civil engineering challenges. The site work involved the relocation of existing water, sewer, storm sewer, electrical, telephone, and natural gas facilities prior to construction, all of which were vital to the day to day operation of the zoo and could not be interrupted. The site is located between two active exhibits, which presented additional concerns during construction as the animals are very sensitive to any changes in their environment. The $4.1 million project also included the construction of a new service drive along the west edge of the property. Construction of the drive was completed during the summer/fall of 2006. The service drive was a vital piece of the overall project, since the location of the new exhibit eliminates access to the animal hospital. The service drive traverses very steep slopes and is located at one of the highest points within the City of Grand Rapids. Moore & Bruggink was responsible for all coordination, survey, design engineering, construction engineering, and construction inspection for the project, and helped coordinate the salvage of lumber from several of the trees that were removed, which will be used as part of future exhibit projects. Moore & Bruggink also coordinated the relocation of an 8" high pressure natural gas main. We have enjoyed being a part of this exciting project that will "Restore the Roar" at the John Ball Zoo. We look forward to the opening of the exhibit in June 2008.