Those two exhibits will never be used as a stand alone exhibit except when they close off the one adjacent to the building for cub introduction. This exhibit and the exhibit to the north will be managed as one exhibit when not used for cubs. There is a large shift gate that can open the two yards to each other. the other exhibit adjacent to the primary public path is used as a stop over and extension of the larger habitats. The exhibit can be opened up so that the tigers can have complete access to all exhibits.
As far as the budget goes I'm not sure if it has been announced by the zoo or not.
Also, the small rendering in the corner was the original concept from a couple years ago by another design firm.