Oklahoma City Zoo announces expansion plans

Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden.

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) – The Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden has unveiled its new expansion master plan.

According to the OKC Zoo, the plan was created to plan for the zoo’s growth for the next ten years and beyond.

Officials say the zoo is focused on its goal of connecting people with wildlife by working with SHR Studios in Bainbridge Island, Washington. The company specializes in the planning and design of zoos and aquariums.

The new plan will bring fascinating, creative and sustainable improvements to the park, including a world-class reptile and amphibian reserve with indoor and outdoor spaces for the zoo’s various species. The plans will also improve accessibility and the visitor experience by transforming the zoo center into a communal gathering place.

“With the recent opening of Expedition Africa, the arrival of five lion cubs and our centennial celebration in Lincoln Park, I am excited to build on this momentum with the announcement of our new master plan,” said Dr. Dwight Lawson, OKC. Executive Director/CEO of the Zoo.

According to the zoo, its last master plan was completed in 2018 and has successfully led projects such as Sanctuary Asia, a Galapagos tortoise habitat, Predator Pass, Wetlands Walkway, Raptor Ridge and Expedition Africa.

The completion of this plan will be celebrated with the opening of a brand new marine mammal habitat called Shore to Sea. Officials say it will be home to the zoo’s California sea lions, harbor seals and African penguins. This new space will occupy 3.5 acres in the eastern part of the park overlooking Zoo Lake and is expected to open in 2027.

“This 10-year plan, which guides construction of the zoo from 2024 to 2034, is perhaps the most ambitious in the zoo’s 122-year history,” Lawson added. “The plan outlines several construction projects that will upgrade some of the zoo’s oldest structures into immersive habitats providing animal care and a superior visitor experience.”

According to zoo officials, the total investment for the 2024 master plan is approximately between $115 million and $230 million, which leaves room for flexibility. Funding for these projects will come from private fundraising efforts, possible historic tax credits, and funding from a dedicated 1/8 cent sales tax approved by citizens in 1990.

The zoo says the timing, size and feasibility of these projects could change at any time because they are long-term plans.

To follow updates to the extension or learn more, visit OKCZoo.org.