December 12, 2025

Custom Drainage System for the Philadelphia Zoo Flamingo Habitat

Custom Drainage System for the Philadelphia Zoo Flamingo Habitat

The Situation

The Philadelphia Zoo is home to some of the most iconic wildlife in the region, and when plans for a new flamingo habitat began, the project required reliable infrastructure.  

Oldcastle Infrastructure’s Telford plant was selected to deliver a custom drainage solution that would support the habitat while meeting strict environmental and operational requirements. What started as a straightforward precast slab installation quickly evolved into a specialized drainage system designed to manage runoff and protect the health of the flamingos. 

 

The Challenge

The initial scope of the project involved installing large precast slabs; however, during construction, the contractor identified a critical need for drainage and filtration components to ensure proper water management.  

This presented two challenges:  

  1. The design required smaller, highly customized components outside Oldcastle Infrastructure’s typical large-scale product range.  
  2. The zoo remained open to visitors throughout the project, demanding precise scheduling and unconventional delivery routes through pedestrian pathways.  
  3. The solution had to fit within the habitat footprint, maintain water quality, and be installed without disrupting zoo operations. 

 

The Solution

Oldcastle Infrastructure responded by engineering a tailored system of trench drains and catch basins equipped with specialized filter media. Each drain featured a durable grate for debris protection and easy maintenance access, while the underlying filter media captured impurities before stormwater exited the habitat. Components varied in size—from compact units to taller structures—but all were designed for durability and performance. 

Production and installation were completed in phases between September 2024 and January 2025. Materials were transported via flatbed trucks and escorted through zoo pathways during early morning hours to avoid visitor traffic. Once onsite, the team installed trench drains and catch basins, followed by filter media placement.  

Despite logistical complexity, Oldcastle Infrastructure’s adaptability and engineering expertise ensured the project was completed within six to eight weeks. 

 

The Outcome

The custom drainage system plays a vital role in maintaining a clean, sustainable environment for the zoo’s flamingo habitat. By effectively managing runoff and filtering impurities, Oldcastle Infrastructure supported the Philadelphia Zoo in achieving its environmental goals while enhancing the visitor experience. For the Telford team, the project was more than just another job—it was an opportunity to contribute to a space that the community can enjoy for years to come.