Zoo breaking ground on penguin exhibit

The Woodland Park Zoo is hosting both the mayor and county executive today to break ground on a $6.5 million penguin exhibit. The 17,000-square-foot project, located near the west entrance, will mimic the desert coastal habitat where Humboldt penguins come ashore to nest. Unlike the old exhibit, the new tank will allow you to watch the penguins swim underwater.

The new exhibit is slated to open summer 2009.

Update: Here’s a photo from the groundbreaking of kids from Mark Twain Elementary and BF Day Boys & Girls Club.