WALKER, Mich. (WOOD) — New renderings show some of the ideas for what a proposed aquarium along the Grand River in Walker might look like.
The renderings from John Ball Zoo — which a spokesperson noted are early conceptual drawings that are subject to change — appear to show the site could include at least one central building, some smaller satellite buildings and walkways through wetlands.
John Ball Zoo eyes site in Walker for aquarium
“John Ball Zoo is a leader in animal care with a mission of saving wildlife and wild places. The proposed aquarium advances our mission and values by bringing a world-class attraction to our community that will foster educational opportunities for generations to come,” zoo CEO Peter D’Arienzo said in a statement released to News 8 Monday.
The zoo is looking at a 190-acre site for the aquarium, though it has not yet bought the land. Much of the site is wetlands and floodway and as much as 40 acres is the the former Fenske Landfill off Wilson Avenue The zoo, the Michigan environmental agency and the city of Grand Rapids are in talks about implementing a brownfield project to clean up the site — though it’s not yet clear exactly what that would look like or how long it would take.
“We are currently working with experts and the State of Michigan to perform due diligence on the potential aquarium site to ensure the project has a positive impact on our air, land and water while expanding our mission of saving wildlife and wild places and bringing huge economic benefits to our region,” D’Arienzo stated. “We look forward to working with our partners and Kent County on many other aspects of this project, so it can bring jobs, educational opportunities and economic impact that will benefit our community for generations to come.”
Big animatronics at zoo highlight programs to protect small species
He said the aquarium is expected to draw 1 million visitors in its first year as well as have a $3.4 billion economic impact and generate $268 million in state and local taxes in its first decade…