Construction Underway on World of Play
Angel Charity for Children World of Play: Construction Has Started!
Construction is underway on this project that is located within the Zoo adjacent to the Conservation Learning Center, with a projected opening of summer of 2023.
Construction always has some disruption. Please note the following:
For park guests: You have probably noticed the construction fence and trailer set up in the Zoo’s south parking lot. There will be construction traffic with large vehicles and noise from the Zoo during the demolition phase. The contractors will have an entry on Lakeshore into the Zoo where vehicles will enter and leave in addition to the small parking lot.
For Zoo guests: The Conservation Learning Center, which has been closed the last couple of weeks for painting and new flooring, will reopen right as construction is beginning. The Learning Center and its exhibits will be open throughout construction and restrooms will be accessible through the learning center. With construction right outside the building, we do expect significant noise and dust in the area.
We apologize for any inconvenience and thank all of you for your patience through the construction phase.
Pathway to Asia: Design Development Complete and In Review
Pathway to Asia design is progressing and is approximately 30% complete. We are currently reviewing the design development plans and will move into construction documents after this review is complete.
We anticipate the parking lot in the current maintenance yard and the loop around the Adaptive Recreation Center to begin this winter and to take about six months. Once that is complete, work will begin on the actual exhibits with a projected opening in 2025.
Sloth: A New Species Coming to the Zoo’s South America Loop
Currently when you visit the Zoo, you will notice construction going on near the lion exhibit. That project is a shoring up and rebuilding of the sidewalk as a part of regular maintenance. If you were able to walk through that entry to South America and look to your right, you would see the area for the new sloth habitat.
We are expecting final drawings from our local architect, GLHN, any day now. Once those are received, we will be submitting for permits for this project. We expect it to open in spring of 2023 when you can view this charismatic animal native to Central and South America up high on their perch with indoor and outdoor viewing.
Stay safe and hydrated this summer, we will be updating you again next month!
Warm regards,