Philadelphia Zoo

Philadelphia Zoo opened its gates on July 1, 1874, and is America’s oldest zoo. As a pioneer in animal care and conservation, it houses more than 1,700 rare and endangered animals on 42 acres in West Philly.

As part of a master planning team led by CLR Design, Meliora developed a sustainable stormwater management plan and provided analysis of the existing stormwater conditions at the zoo, as well as guiding stormwater management principles. These practices include managing the majority of stormwater runoff, treating runoff at the source, and incorporating stormwater management features into new development, major exhibits, and retrofits.

We also provided site specific stormwater management recommendations for problem areas within the zoo that also meet rigorous City of Philadelphia stormwater regulations. The zoo uses this stormwater plan as a guide for implementation when areas of the campus are being renovated.