iiCON Construction is proud to celebrate the topping out ceremony at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo for the International Center for the Care and Conservation of Giraffe. Placing the final beam is a special moment for our team at iicon Construction, our partners at CSNA Architects, and the Zoo. 

Topping out is a long tradition in construction. It reaches back to Viking times, when builders placed a tree on the tallest point to honor spirits and bring good fortune. Today, ironworkers carry that forward. We raise a tree and often an American flag with the last beam, and everyone who worked on the project signed the beam. These symbols stand for growth, pride, and a safe job well done. They also remind us that every milestone matters.

From the start, our goal has been clear. Create a world-class giraffe habitat that supports natural behaviors and inspires every guest. With the Zoo and CSNA Architects, we visited leading European zoos to learn from the best exhibits. Those lessons shaped design choices that focus on animal well-being, guest experience, and education.

This new center will offer the giraffes diverse ways to roam, reach, and explore. It will help families connect with nature and learn about conservation. As builders, we are honored to help elevate a key experience in our city.

Today’s ceremony is more than a beam in place. It is a promise kept. It supports the Zoo’s leadership in animal care, education, and conservation for the next century. We are grateful to everyone who helped us reach this moment and excited for what comes next.