Tulsa Zoo Asian Elephant Exhibit

Barnhart Excavating completed the earthwork, stabilization, and utility installation for the Tulsa Zoo’s Asian Elephant Exhibit expansion. This was a Title 61 public bid project. As a City of Tulsa–certified SBE, we met all SBE participation requirements while delivering the precision, reliability, and craftsmanship that define our four‑generation legacy.

The project involved stabilizing extremely wet subgrade conditions, installing a 12-inch aggregate bridge lift over geogrid, and coordinating closely with the testing lab to ensure all density and compaction requirements were met. Our team constructed the building pad through multiple tested lifts, updated GPS models to match evolving design needs, and maintained production despite equipment challenges and extreme weather.

We also installed storm piping across challenging terrain, performed extensive hauling and earthmoving, and prepared structure areas and slopes for the next phase of construction. The result is a stable, well‑engineered foundation ready to support the zoo’s expanded Asian Elephant habitat.