Oregon Zoo, Entry Upgrade, Cascade Crest Expansion, and Polar Plaza

As part of Oregon Zoo’s $380M bond measure passed in 2024 to fund the next decade of development, Fortis was selected for this first project that upgrades one of the busiest public entries in Oregon.

The Entry Plaza will transform the Zoo’s entrance, creating a welcoming and purposeful community gathering space. Accessibility, circulation, and wayfinding improvements are key elements of this project and will support year-round programmatic needs.

The expansion of Cascade Crest will transform an underutilized area into a functional and welcoming space with a new, permanent architectural structure that cohesively blends with surrounding exhibits through durable, natural-wood materials rooted in Pacific Northwest character. Addressing accessibility issues and the goal to promote community, the expanded structure will create an inclusive space for visitors and enhance the area’s function as an events space for the Zoo’s activities. The 10,000sf expansion will accommodate a range of events and feature lighting, fans, radiant heaters, and skylights for year-round use.

The Polar Plaza structure will blend cohesively with adjacent buildings, including the Polar Bear exhibit. The new mass-timber shelter will create a welcoming and inclusive space for guests and be used year-round for daily and nighttime events. An awning will also be added to the south and east sides of Growler’s café to protect visitors and staff from the elements.

Animal, visitor, and staff safety is a key consideration for this project, as the Zoo will remain operational through construction. Consistent communication and coordination with the Zoo staff will help maintain a safe site and minimize impacts to the animals and campus operations.

The project will be hallmarked by the Regional Workforce Equity Agreement (RWEA), aiming to exceed 30% COBID-certified subcontractor and vendor utilization.