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[[underlined]] Research Facilities [[/underlined]]

Construction of the new sea water laboratory at the Tropical Research Institute on Naos Island is progressing and scheduled for completion by February 1980. Construction of the new dormitory at the Astrophysical Observatory at Mt. Hopkins is nearing completion, and occupancy is expected during December 1979.

[[underlined]] Natural History Building Fire Protection [[/underlined]]

The fire protection master plan for the Natural History Building is complete and provides detailed designs for a phased upgrading program. A contract awarded in September 1979 ($251,000) for the installation of a sprinkler system in a portion of the west wing is underway. During FY 1980, an amount of $425,000 is available to complete the west wing sprinkler system and to install a control system. Funds for completion of the system will be sought over the next five years at an additional cost of approximately $3 million.

[[underlined]] National Zoological Park and Front Royal Conservation and Research Center [[/underlined]]

The new Great Ape House facility is progressing on schedule for completion during Spring 1980; renovation of the Small Mammal Building (where some of the great apes are temporarily housed) will follow. The North American Mammals Exhibit is undergoing finishing touches before opening to the public also during Spring 1980. Renovation of the Reptile House (including a new nocturnal exhibit) is being advertised, and a contract is expected to be awarded during February 1980. A statement of work is being prepared for the Aquatic Habitats Exhibit with award of a design contract anticipated during February 1980.