Kai Evans and her husband Jim started the planning process for Adventure Park four years ago, but they said they have always had intentions of building an aquarium as well. The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce got with the Conray Design Group, and the Texas Tech Biology Department to announce the official plans for the Lubbock Aquarium.
The facility will be 2.92 acres, and located on the same grounds as Adventure Park at 5110 29th Drive. The project will be a non-profit, Kai Evans said they are currently looking for community partnerships and donations.
“We have officially launched our first fundraising campaign called ‘Voyage To Lubbock’ where you donate for a fish to be brought over from the barrier reef,” said Evans. “As people donate the fish moves closer to Lubbock, and they can learn about different stops made along the way.”
There isn’t a set time line on the project, but it is estimated to cost $10 – $12 million to build. The facility is planned to have a restaurant inside, and a butterfly garden outside. There is a continued discussion about what sea creatures will be featured, but so far Evans said there will be a shark, dolphins, otters, and crocodiles. The facility will also feature space for Texas Tech biology research.
“We’ll have curriculum that’s being able to be developed from Texas Tech teachers and STEM research.” said Evans.
For more information on the development of the Aquarium or how you can get involved, go to: lubbockaquarium.org
