The current layout was conceived by museum exhibit designer John Llewellyn. The project took a year to build and made its public debut on November 22, 2002. Senior exhibit developer Jennifer Johnston played a key role in developing and creating the 24 information stations covering operations and public safety incorporated in the exhibit. Part of Lleyellyn and Johnston's research for the project included an 11-day trip from Seattle to Chicago. The development team studied visitor interaction with the former layout and designed the new display in a Serpentine shape in order to bring guests into the exhibit to enhance the visual experience. Guests can also avail themselves a bird's-eye view of the layout from the balcony that surrounds it.