Columbus Zoo and Aquarium kicks off $40 million project to revamp North America exhibits

Mountain lions, moose, reindeer, and wolves may not be native to Ohio, at least within the last 200 years, but they are to North America.

And the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is investing a record $40 million to showcase them in a two-phase revamping of its North America region of the Powell-based zoo.

Dubbed "North America Trek," the project's goal is to modernize the zoo's oldest area, showcase the continent's native species and promote conservation of some of those that might become threatened due to climate change, over-development and other natural and man-made changes.

Groundbreaking was Oct. 24, with completion of the first phase in spring 2025.

“The North America Trek project represents our next step forward in the Columbus Zoo’s commitment to animal well-being, wildlife conservation, and education. As the transformation of the North America region takes shape, it promises to offer visitors an immersive experience like no other while strengthening the Zoo's pivotal role in fostering a love for animals and a dedication to their protection,” Tom Schmid, president and CEO of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, said in a news release.

Major funding for the project is coming from Battelle, which has gifted more than $2.6 million to the Columbus Zoo and The Wilds.

Read the full article here.