POWELL – The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, and its wildlife conservation center, The Wilds, are embarking on a major capital spending program, planning to spend over $50 million on projects to improve habitats and lodging at the two attractions.
The largest single expenditure to be undertaken over the course of the next 12 to 18 months is approximately $32.5 million earmarked for the redevelopment of the North America region.
Groundbreaking is scheduled for the fall on the project, which includes new habitats for gray wolf, bald eagle, black bear, North American river otter and Canada lynx.
Construction began this spring on a nearly $4 million expansion and improvement of the bonobo’s indoor winter habitat.
The zoo is spending another $8 million for animal wellbeing and habitat improvements, facility upgrades, new technology, enhanced security and more, said Tom Schmid, president and CEO of the Columbus Zoo and The Wilds.
“We are excited to announce these significant projects and improvements. These projects, along with other enhancements focused on animal wellbeing, are modernizing our nearly 100-year old Zoo, providing more security for our guests, and improving the lives of our animals,” Schmid said.
At The Wilds, outside Zanesville, work continues on the $7 million 59-acre RV campground, which will include 46 spots for RVs, 27 primitive camping spots, hiking, biking trails, a playground, a camp store, a dog park, two shower houses, and fishing and swimming at a nearby lake. The campground is expected to be ready to welcome visitors in early 2024.