McMillan Pazdan Smith and Hood Construction have kicked off construction of the Jane B. Friedman Conservation Learning Center at Riverbanks Zoo & Garden. Located adjacent to the Saluda Skyride, the almost 9,000 SF facility will further expand educational programs at Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, providing more indoor and outdoor classroom space for visitors.
The new Conservation Learning Center will provide an additional environment for innovative educational experiences offered through camps, school field trips, and conferences. Guests will learn more about wildlife and Riverbanks Zoo’s ongoing conservation efforts.
Situated alongside the Saluda River, the facility will be an open concept learning area with acoustic walls, a reception area, and floor-to-ceiling bird-friendly glass windows to encourage safety, natural light, and views of the Saluda River.
“Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is committed to nurturing curiosity and inspiring a lifelong appreciation for wildlife and wild places,” said Tommy Stringfellow, president and CEO at Riverbanks Zoo & Garden.
The Jane B. Friedman Conservation Learning Center will expand Riverbanks’ ability to offer on-site programs such as camps, classroom lessons, and overnight experiences that give future generations hands-on opportunities to explore, learn, and grow as conservation leaders.”
— Tommy Stringfellow, CEO/President, Riverbanks Zoo & Garden
The project team of Riverbanks Zoo, McMillan Pazdan Smith and Hood Construction, have already hit the ground running as the building foundations and slab are complete, and steel erection has begun on site.
“I am very grateful to be working on my second project for Riverbanks Zoo & Garden. As a proud member, the incredible work they do each and every day in wildlife care, conservation efforts, education, and awareness is an important service to our community, to our state, and to our planet,” said Chris Sinclair, Hood Construction Project Manager. “This facility will be another tool to assist in those efforts and enhance the already outstanding guest experience and family fun atmosphere Riverbanks Zoo & Garden is known for, which continues to attract visitors from all over the world”.
“It is a great honor to continue our design partnership with the leadership team at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. RBZ’s team offers an incredible service, providing lifelong learning experiences to our young people,” said Todd Sease, Principal, Architect, McMillan Pazdan Smith. “This facility will enhance the work of the Riverbanks Zoo Education Team and encourage curiosity, creativity, and a heightened awareness of sustainability and conservation among all users.”
The Jane B. Friedman Conservation Learning Center plans to open in the fall of 2026.
To watch the project progress live, click here.
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