The exhibit will be closed for several months while the glass is being replaced.
The Upland Tropical Rain Forest exhibit at the top of the National Aquarium in Baltimore will be closing for renovations.
The glass panels in the famous pyramid will be replaced with energy-efficient glass and new LED lights will be installed. Animals from the exhibit will be relocated to the Australia exhibit and the rescue center on Fayette St. during the renovation.
The project is scheduled to start on March 3 and is expected to be completed sometime this fall.
Open since 1981, the National Aquarium's glass panels have undergone wear and tear over the years. More than 680 panels will be replaced with a new grade of energy-efficient glass that will help moderate temperatures inside the exhibit and eliminate strong rays that can kill plants. The exterior of the glass will be etched to prevent migrating birds from flying into it.
"The Upland Tropical Rain Forest is not only a guest favorite, it literally defines Baltimore's skyline. These improvements will ensure the integrity of our building while accelerating our multi-year initiative to be Maryland's most bird-friendly glass structure," said John Racanelli, CEO of the National Aquarium.
In addition, LED lights will be added "along the borders of the pyramid, which will shine blue for the National Aquarium, as well as having the ability to light up purple for the Baltimore Ravens and orange for the Baltimore Orioles."
The project will cost the non-profit aquarium around $8 million, the bulk of the money coming from the State of Maryland. The state is giving the National Aquarium $7 million and the rest is being supplied by the City of Baltimore, Baltimore County, and the Abell Foundation.
The National Aquarium is currently open to the public seven days a week. Timed-entry tickets can be purchased online and guests over the age of 12 are required to show proof of vaccination at the door.
Have you visited the Upland Tropical Rain Forest exhibit before? What do you think of the renovations being made? Sound off in the comments below.
