Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium Unveils Master Plan for a Wild Future

The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium has revealed an ambitious 20-year master plan aimed at transforming the Highland Park campus into a revitalized hub for both animal well-being and visitor experiences.

The plan, which emphasizes cutting-edge habitats and innovative educational opportunities, marks a significant milestone in the zoo’s mission to combat biodiversity loss and inspire conservation efforts.

The first phase, set to unfold over the next five to seven years, will bring noticeable changes. These include a new front entrance and accessible pathway, an expanded giraffe barn, a reimagined orangutan habitat, and a modernized Education Complex. Guests can expect to see the early stages of these transformations beginning in early winter.

“With the urgency of fighting biodiversity loss and climate change, our mission to connect people to wildlife and inspire conservation for future generations is more critical than ever,” said Dr. Jeremy Goodman, President and CEO of Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium.

New Entrances and Green Spaces

As part of the zoo’s comprehensive overhaul, a temporary entrance path will be in place by November, with a permanent, more efficient front gate expected to open by summer 2025. The new entry will streamline the process for visitors, Zoo Members, and groups, while introducing green spaces and additional restrooms to improve the guest experience.

State-of-the-Art Animal Habitats

One of the key highlights of the master plan is the construction of a state-of-the-art giraffe barn. This new facility will offer year-round viewing and enhanced public interaction opportunities with resident giraffes, Lewis and Sox. Designed according to the latest standards from the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, the barn will feature a large dayroom and ample hay storage, ensuring the well-being of its inhabitants. An expanded outdoor yard will allow for a longer outdoor season and the potential for a larger giraffe herd in the future.

Additionally, the zoo plans to create a multi-level habitat for its popular Bornean orangutans. The new hillside location will encourage natural behaviors like swinging, while Malayan tapirs will enjoy a more immersive environment with waterfalls and pools. This elevated space will offer guests panoramic views of the zoo and feature off-season viewing during winter months.

“Innovative animal habitats will provide ever-changing guest viewing opportunities while showcasing the animals’ natural behaviors,” Goodman explained.

Education and Conservation at the Forefront

As part of the master plan, the Education Complex will undergo significant updates to accommodate growing visitor numbers and expand conservation programming. The zoo’s Conservation Education department, which reached nearly one million guests in 2023, will benefit from additional classrooms, new office spaces, and a larger area for the Ambassador Animal collection. A licensed, full-time preschool will also be added to serve the needs of young learners.

Looking ahead, the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium aims to further solidify its role as a leader in global wildlife conservation. “This plan is not just about physical transformation,” said Goodman, “but also about positioning the zoo as a global leader in conservation and reinforcing its status as a beloved institution.”

The zoo will continue to share updates with us on upcoming changes and their impact on guests as the project progresses. Follow our social media channels for the latest news.

For more information on the zoo’s future, visit the official Pittsburgh Zoo we sute by Clicking Here.

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