Willis A. Smith Construction, Inc., and The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company will build Mote’s new aquarium.
Mote Marine Laboratory has announced the selection of a partnership between a local construction management company and an international firm for the construction of the Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA): Willis A. Smith Construction, Inc., and The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company.
An aquarium takes center stage at the new facility.
IMAGE: COURTESY PHOTO
Mote’s president and CEO, Dr. Michael Crosby, announced the selection, overlooking the future home of Mote SEA. The firms’ selection is the result of months of assessment by a committee of Mote trustees and senior staff. Ultimately, Mote says the committee recognized the value of Whiting-Turner’s experience constructing large, scientific and public-aquarium facilities nationwide. This, paired with Willis Smith’s proficiency with projects in southwest Florida, including eco-friendly construction.
A rendering of the interior of the new aquarium.
IMAGE: COURTESY PHOTO
Leaders are now working with Willis Smith and Whiting-Turner to move forward with the pre-construction phase, in close collaboration with project architect CambridgeSeven and Mote staff. Fundraising for the project also continues; Mote has raised $34 million of its $130 million campaign so far, including $2 million in the past 31 days.
A rendering of Mote’s educational spaces at the new facility.
IMAGE: COURTESY PHOTO
For more information, go to moteoceansforall.org.