USA. A new educational play space has opened at Mineta San José International Airport. Created by the Children’s Discovery Museum of San José and named the Zoom Zone, it is designed around the belief that many children have never flown on an airplane and are fascinated by what they see in the sky.
The 600sq ft Zoom Zone space is located in Terminal B between Gates 24 and 25. It includes various features which engage youngsters by encouraging them to think about the creatures and objects that fly, while experimenting with the roles that air, wind, wings and design play in flight.
More than US$1.2 million in pro bono and discounted services made this project possible, the airport said. The airport provided the space for the Zoom Zone at no cost and general contractor Hensel Phelps Construction managed the project pro bono and secured sub-contractors from electrical to mechanical that donated or discounted their services.
Meanwhile, tech firm Zoom Video Communications, one of Silicon Valley’s fastest growing companies, stepped up as the presenting sponsor with a gift of US$240,000.
Mineta San José International Airport Director of Aviation John Aitken said: “We are extremely proud to introduce this new addition to our airport experience. Zoom Zone is a fun, safe, and clean space for travelling families, and its creation – from funding to design to construction – highlights the commitment of Silicon Valley businesses to our local community and to the airport.”
Children’s Discovery Museum of San José Executive Director Marilee Jennings said: “We couldn’t be more proud to be at the airport and to support families travelling into and out of San Jose with a place designed especially for children.”
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