John Ball Zoo plans more exhibits, redesign

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — John Ball Zoo is proposing a makeover that would include not only new animals and exhibits, but also a new experience for visitors.

John Ball Zoo draws some 500,000 people each year. It opened 128 years ago, which makes it nation’s 10th oldest zoo. Next month marks the 15 years since Kent County voters rejected zoo officials’ request to move away from the West Side and to the suburbs. Now, the man who oversees the zoo says it’s home is the perfect spot.

“I can’t tell you how pleased I am that the zoo’s here,” CEO Peter D’Arienzo said Tuesday.

The zoo recently added toucans, an additional spider monkey, and the popular red pandas. Over the next five years, the zoo will look different. To get that process started, it will close early this season.

“We’re closing a month early because we have only so much time we can work in the winter,” the CEO explained.

Step one: Widen the entryway to address accessibility. The hill that greets people after they pay admission will be half as steep.Officials are also planning an 18-acre playground for the neighborhood. To do it, they’ll move parking from in front of the zoo to the rear.

John Ball Zoo is among only 10% of zoos in the country certified to have the best possible practices for meeting animals’ needs. It said the changes will allow it to keep treating animals the best it can.

The long-term plans will rely on donations, so the zoo will be making more announcements about fundraising.

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