Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium releases first phase of improvement plan

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – The Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium is unveiling the first phase of its expansion master plan, which includes improvements to entrances and some animal facilities at the zoo, among several other facilities.

The overall plan is expected to take approximately 20 years. Phase one will take place in the next 5-7 years.

“Our current main entrance is over 30 years old,” said Dr. Richard Goodman, president and CEO of the Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium.

One of the first steps in business is to create a new front entrance with more ticket takers.

“We really hope that when people drive past our main entrance, they automatically know that they have arrived at the zoo and that the experience begins right at the main entrance,” he said.

The giraffe stable is also to be expanded. The space will be more than four times larger, enough to accommodate one giraffe and start a breeding program to bring them more attention.

“This new giraffe holding facility will feature large viewing windows allowing our public to view them year-round. It offers opportunities for VIP experiences,” continued Dr. Goodman continued.

The orangutan habitat is also being expanded.

“We know that animals really do better in more natural habitats,” said Dr. Goodman.

“Others will look to us as they design their future orangutan exhibits and learn how to do it right.”

The zoo's educational complex is also being modernized. Dr. Goodman told KDKA-TV that plans to double educational offerings are bursting at the seams.

“With all of this expanded programming, we also have a much larger education workforce, and they need a place to operate from.”

This plan even includes the creation of a full-time, licensed preschool.

“This is a partnership with the public and we also need their help to ensure that all of this can happen in a timely manner and that they get the world-class experience they deserve,” said Dr. Goodman.