Mississippi Aquarium

Project Details

ROLE
General Contractor

CONTRACT AMOUNT
$52 Million

OWNER
Gulfport Redevelopment Commission

LOCATION
Gulfport, MS

ARCHITECT
Eley Guild Hardy Architects

SIZE
63,800 square feet

COMPLETION
2020

Project Description

The Mississippi Aquarium was developed on a 7-acre site and includes seven (7) buildings and seven (7) outdoor exhibits. There are nine (9) water retaining exhibits consisting of approximately one million gallons of both fresh and salt water.  Exhibits include alligator and crocodile, freshwater river (fish and turtles), otter, dolphin, aviary, saltwater main tank (fish, rays, crabs, and sharks) and saltwater swirl tank (fish). Main buildings are uniquely shaped and consist of both concrete and steel structures, clad with zinc metal panels resembling fish scales.  Support buildings consist of CMU structures with EIFS exteriors. There are three (3) large custom structures symbolizing sails arising from the entry fountain built from structural steel and shot-crete. Wooden boardwalks and themed concrete paving connect the entire campus. 

Awards

Mississippi Associated Builders and Contractors Merit Award

Associated General Contractors of Mississippi Build Mississippi Award