Franken Construction Wins AGC Award in Buildings Under $2.5 Million Category for ABQ BioPark Exhibit

Franken Construction Company has been recognized by the Associated General Contractors (AGC) of New Mexico for its work on the ABQ BioPark Snapping Turtle Exhibit, earning top honors in the Buildings Under $2.5 Million category.

This award highlights not only construction excellence, but also the thoughtful design and execution required to create a modern, functional, and engaging habitat for both animals and visitors.

A Project Built Around Animal Care and Experience

Completed in 2025, the upgraded exhibit is home to Wilson, the BioPark’s 53-year-old alligator snapping turtle. The renovation focused on improving both the animal’s quality of life and the overall visitor experience.

Key upgrades included:

• Expanded Habitat: The pool volume was doubled, creating deeper water and more space for natural movement
• Enhanced Basking Areas: Specialized zones with heat and UV lighting support healthy reptile behavior
• Natural Features: Added ledges and textures encourage digging, foraging, and exploration

These improvements allow the exhibit to better reflect Wilson’s natural environment while supporting long-term health and care.

Behind-the-Scenes Improvements That Matter

While the visible upgrades are impressive, much of the project’s impact comes from critical infrastructure enhancements.

Franken Construction implemented:

• Advanced Life Support Systems to maintain cleaner, clearer water
• Improved Filtration and Circulation for long-term sustainability
• Operational Upgrades that help BioPark staff maintain optimal habitat conditions

These behind-the-scenes elements are essential to the success of modern zoological exhibits and demonstrate the technical expertise required for projects like this.

Designed for an Immersive Visitor Experience

In addition to animal care, the project prioritized how guests interact with the space.

Enhancements included:

• A larger viewing pathway for better accessibility and flow
• Closer viewing opportunities to connect visitors with the exhibit
• Updated educational displays and signage to create a more engaging, informative experience

The surrounding Reptile Building also received cosmetic updates, including a refreshed entrance and new exhibit features developed in collaboration with partners like Chevron.

Visitors can now explore a more immersive environment that includes additional species such as a timber rattlesnake and an American alligator named Captain.

Recognized Excellence in Construction

Winning an AGC award in the Buildings Under $2.5 Million category underscores Franken Construction’s ability to deliver high-quality, specialized projects with precision and efficiency.

This project is a strong example of how thoughtful construction can:

• Support animal welfare
• Enhance public education
• Improve long-term facility performance
• Create meaningful community experiences

A Lasting Impact on the Albuquerque Community

The ABQ BioPark Snapping Turtle Exhibit is more than a renovation, it’s an investment in Albuquerque’s cultural and educational landscape.

Franken Construction’s work ensures that visitors can continue to learn, explore, and connect with wildlife in a setting designed for both sustainability and engagement.

As the exhibit continues to welcome guests, this award-winning project stands as a testament to the craftsmanship, collaboration, and care that went into bringing it to life.