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Construction Projects will Transform Edmonton Valley Zoo
An Arctic habitat now under construction at the Edmonton Valley Zoo is one of several projects that will transform our zoo. Given the challenge of building habitats on a site that is already in use by animals, staff must thoughtfully organize the construction schedule and adjust it as necessary. Here’s what is planned:
Polar Extremes Phase 1: Arctic Shores
Future home of seals/sea lion, Arctic fox and ground squirrels.
Project stage: Construction
Opening: Fall 2011
Budget: $16.7 million, including $7 million from the Government of Alberta
Learn more about Polar Extremes - Phase 1 and Phase 2
Entry Plaza, Education Centre, Otter Habitat and The Wander trail system
Project stage: Concept
Opening: Late 2012
Budget: $35 million
Learn more about the Otter Habitat, Entry Plaza, Education Centre, & Wander trail system
Other Projects Underway
The Zoo’s new veterinary hospital is scheduled to be completed in July 2010. This facility will include a treatment clinic, a surgery, quarantine facilities and laboratory. Budget for this project, which includes improvements to the Winter Quarters, is approximately $1 million, of which the Valley Zoo Development Society contributed $150,000.
A new perimeter fence, approximately 10 feet tall, will replace the existing wooden fence along Buena Vista Drive and the zoo parking lot. The budget of $600,000 includes landscaping and other improvements.
Coming Soon: Nature’s Wild Backyard
Nature’s Wild Backyard, to be designed with our young guests in mind, will replace the current “Storyland” area of the zoo. It will give children and families the opportunity role play as a zoo veterinarian or zoo keeper and get closer to animals such as turtles, frogs and squirrel monkeys. It is anticipated this project will be partially funded through the efforts of the Valley Zoo Development Society. To contribute, visit http://www.buildingourzoo.com/
Project stage: Concept
Budget: $35 million to be partially raised by the Valley Zoo Development Society
Projects Recently Completed
- Redevelopment of the nocturnal wing from outdated individual exhibits to a multi-species habitat housing armadillos, two-toed sloth, fruit bats, prehensile tailed porcupine and kinkajous.
- Big-horn sheep landscaping and retaining was upgraded, improving the habitat for the animals and viewing opportunities for you.
- Makira Outpost greatly improved the year round housing for the zoo’s red fronted, ring tailed, red ruffed and black and white lemurs.
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