CT Wells Installs Geothermal Lion Cage

CT Wells Installs Geothermal Lion Cage

The renovation of the Bronx Zoo Lion House will transform this architectural landmark into a magnificent 19,000 square foot venue. A new Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) building will also be constructed. Both projects incorporate geothermal energy systems, and the zoo is pursuing Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. Langan provided geothermal evaluation and design, amongst other engineering services.

Our review of available hydrogeologic data for the Lion House project showed conditions favorable for a standing column well (SCW) groundwater source heat exchanger. A seismic reflection geophysical survey was then coordinated to investigate the depths, orientation, and degree of interconnection of water–bearing fractures and faults.

The selected SCW satisfied the 160-ton heating and cooling load. A 1,300 foot standing column test well was installed and pump-tested to establish the sustainable yield of the bedrock. Our final design included five SCW’s to a depth of 1,300 feet.