The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium is exploring plans for a new standalone aquarium on the North Shore.
The proposed Pennsylvania Aquarium is in the conceptual stage, with an economic impact study underway to assess its feasibility and potential funding sources.
“To have an aquarium – a full, large, major aquarium – we think it’s just a great opportunity for the city,” said Jeremy Goodman, Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium President and CEO.
Early concepts envision a large-scale, immersive aquarium designed to expand aquatic conservation storytelling, strengthen Pittsburgh’s role as a national leader in conservation and environmental education, and boost tourism and job creation.
No final location decisions regarding the location have been made yet as site feasibility is still being evaluated by a coalition of local government and community organization leaders.
Goodman said a complete list of members involved in the process has yet to be determined, but he has heard positive feedback so far.
The idea for a stand-alone aquarium in the North Shore had the support of local government officials on Tuesday.
“We appreciate the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium’s leadership and vision in expanding this important educational and cultural institution,” said Molly Onufer, spokeswoman to Pittsburgh Mayor Corey O’Connor.
Abigail Gardner, spokeswoman for Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato said the county is looking forward to the coalition’s evaluation.
“There could be great synergy with other North Shore institutions, and where better to have a state aquarium that is a draw for locals and visitors alike?” Gardner said.
The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium is one of six major zoo and aquarium hybrids in the United States and is home to more than 8,000 animals representing over 600 species.
The organization’s research and conservation projects are recognized globally and represented on all seven continents and five oceans and as a regional attraction with a global impact, it is exempt from federal income taxes as a non-profit.
The zoo is American Humane Conservation-certified and accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the Zoological Association of America, and the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums.
Details about whether the project will ultimately move forward remained uncertain as of Tuesday.
The existing aquarium, located in Highland Park, was built in the early 2000s.
Aquariums typically have a 25-year life cycle before requiring significant renovations, Goodman said.
He said whether the existing Pittsburgh aquarium would be relocated to the North Shore and combined with the proposed Pennsylvania Aquarium will depend on space and overall feasibility.
“We’re just going to let the process play out,” Goodman said.
Goodman said he expects a feasibility and economic report on the project to be finished late spring or early summer.
