TOPEKA (KSNT) – The Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center made a big announcement on Monday for new development taking place in the years to come.
The Topeka Zoo made a major announcement at 10:30 a.m. on Feb. 9 regarding the unveiling of its new master plan. Zoo leaders shared new details about the comprehensive and five-year vision to both honor the zoo’s past and shape its future.
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“This master plan is more than a blueprint for our campus,” said Topeka Zoo CEO Christina Castellano. “It is a commitment to our animals, to our staff, to our guests and to everyone in our community. It honors the heart and history of this beloved local treasure while boldly looking forward to what the zoo can and should become for the next generation.”
Castellano said people can expect to see exciting new developments at the zoo each year over the next five years. This includes the new Tiger Trails area and the Discovery Forest.
- 2026 – Tiger Trails & Den Academy
- 2027 – reimagined Security Benefit Children’s Zoo and new play space
- 2028 – Discovery Forest
- 2029 – Realm of the Rhino: Guardians of the Plains
- 2030 – Rainforest Adventure Dome
The zoo will be adding new animals as part of the new developments listed above such as a red panda and a clouded leopard for the Discovery Forest. The Discovery Forest also includes fun new areas for guests such as the Green Gallery atrium and Parallel Play Playground.
“The future of the zoo is bright with our support, with your support, with our community, we will reimagine, renew and reconnect, creating a zoo where animals thrive, curiosity leads and conservation truly begins at home,” Castellano said. “Thank you for being part of this journey, for believing in the vision and for helping us shape a future that will inspire generations to come.”
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You can learn more about the zoo’s master plan by clicking here. You can also read through the document below to find out more about the plan.
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