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January 12, 2018

DDC Early Career Development Program Tour: Staten Island Aquarium

The Department of Design and Construction Early Career Development Program consists of tours, presentations, trainings, and workshops geared towards recently hired professionals to ensure continued professional growth, education, and collaboration. The program also aims to promote cross functional knowledge and collaboration to improve relationships with peers and understanding of overall DDC program goals.

On January 12th, 2018, Deputy Program Director Tawfik Tawfik and Administrative Project Manager Devang Kapadia led a tour of the Staten Island Aquarium for over 25 Early Career Development Participants. The Zoo project is schedule to be completed in June of 2018. Currently, the project is at 75%- substantial completion with an overall budget of approx. $7 Million. This project consists of the reconstruction of the aquarium exhibit, foyer and replacement of boilers. Participants received a first-hand look at the progress of this unique project. In addition to testimony from Zoo staff, DDC Project Managers, and the general contractor/signature on the difficulties they faced successfully executing this project.

The Staten Island Zoo was the first zoo in the country to specifically dedicate itself to fulfilling an educational mission. The original zoo building is a brick construction, Neo-Georgian style two floor building with a cellar. The building is not a NYC Landmark. Since opening in 1936, a small aquarium has also been located at the center of the main building’s three wings.

DDC High School and College interns
Recently hired professionals learn about the unique challenges the team faced during the design and construction of the Staten Island Aquarium.