Akron Zoo announces plans to build new animal hospital

***Video above: You can now feed a lion at the Akron Zoo.***

AKRON, Ohio (WJW) – The Akron Zoo has announced plans to build a new hospital that will, according to zoo officials, “provide top-notch veterinary care for more than 2,000 animals.”

The new hospital, roughly 11,900 square-feet, will house a surgery suite, intensive care unit and designated spaces for a variety of species, including primates, birds and large carnivores.

Construction on the facility, which will be built behind the Landon & Cynthia Knight Pride of Africa area on Diagonal Road, is expected to begin in 2025. The Akron Zoo is aiming for a 2026 opening.

The project will cost about $11.95 million.

The announcement comes after the Akron Zoo learned it was receiving $2 million for the project as part of Ohio House Bill 2 . Governor Mike DeWine signed the legislation on June 28.

Zoo officials say the new facility will help them in offering in-house care for animals every day.

“Providing the animals we all care so deeply about with exceptional medical care is one of our top priorities at the Akron Zoo,” said Doug Piekarz, president and CEO of the Akron Zoo. “The funds from the State of Ohio allow us to build the kind of medical facility that can best meet the needs of our animals as the zoo continues to grow. We are grateful to the Summit County delegation for their mentorship and continued support.”

Learn more about the Akron Zoo here.

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