Clancy & Theys provided construction services for the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher expansion and renovation project in 2002. The expansion and renovation took 26 months and nearly tripled the facility’s size to 84,000 SF. Located on a peninsula between the Atlantic Ocean and the Cape Fear River, the project showcases dramatic new spaces highlighted by two major additions: the Cape Fear Freshwater Conservatory and the Cape Fear Shoals.
The Cape Fear Conservatory, 20,000 SF, is covered by a clear-span aluminum space frame roof. Translucent panels reach 60 feet above the floor, allowing natural and diffused light to enter the space.
The Cape Fear Shoals space highlights a spectacular 24-foot-deep saltwater aquarium containing 235,000 gallons. Multiple viewing windows offer views of nearly 500 saltwater creatures and nearly 50 different species. Divers perform routine maintenance, clean, and communicate with visitors via an underwater communication system. Like the Conservatory, life support systems for the aquatic habitats remain carefully hidden.
Clancy & Theys returned to the Fort Fisher Aquarium and provided construction services for the Shark Tooth Ledge Exhibit project in 2016. Work consisted of removing and replacing the existing Shark tooth Ledge exhibit, aquascape, and other FRP components. A similar-sized tank was built in sections designed to fit through existing doorways with only inches to spare. Clancy & Theys completed the project while the aquarium remained open.
Continued improvements include Clancy & Theys, which is currently in the preconstruction phase for new renovations and an addition to the aquarium. Construction is to begin in late 2025.
Other North Carolina Aquarium projects include the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores and the North Carolina Aquarium at Nags Head (Jennette’s Pier).
