Edmonton Zoo Unveils Ambitious 15-Year Plan with Polar Bear Exhibit

UPDATE: The Edmonton Valley Zoo has just announced a groundbreaking 15-year master plan that will transform the facility with new habitats, species, and visitor experiences. This urgent development aims to enhance conservation and education efforts while attracting more visitors to the city.

The plan includes the highly anticipated Coastal Arctic space, featuring habitats for polar bears and sea otters, complete with indoor underwater viewing areas. This ambitious initiative will introduce several new species to the zoo, including the amur bear, Siberian musk deer, wolverine, puffin, whooping crane, badger, and wood bison.

Key features of the new design include the Aerie zone, an elevated trail that allows visitors to closely observe flying and tree-climbing animals like raptors, lemurs, and sloths. Notably, the current enclosure for Lucy the elephant will be replaced with a space for the Sichuan takin, demonstrating the zoo’s commitment to diversifying its animal population.

The City of Edmonton’s website offers detailed renderings and videos showcasing these new features. The zoo aims to inspire community support and attract private and public investment, emphasizing that development will occur in phases to ensure responsible progress.

Authorities report that the zoo is not seeking funding in the upcoming 2027-2030 budget cycle, but is actively engaging donors to support this transformative plan. Officials from the zoo stated, “This vision will catalyze renewed community pride, tourism, and investment in the Edmonton Valley Zoo, ensuring it remains a cherished destination for Edmontonians and visitors alike.”

The Edmonton Valley Zoo has been working on this comprehensive plan for the past two years, focusing on conservation, education, and research. The zoo assures that all species included in the proposal are “considered to be obtainable” from accredited zoological institutions over the next 15 years.

With a new paved parking lot exceeding accessible parking requirements and a boardwalk over a wetland near Buena Vista Road, the zoo’s expansion reflects its commitment to sustainability and inclusivity.

As details continue to unfold, excitement grows among the community. This ambitious plan is set to redefine the Edmonton Valley Zoo, creating a vibrant space for education, conservation, and unforgettable experiences for families and wildlife enthusiasts.

Stay tuned for more updates on developments related to this significant initiative!