Blank Park Zoo's $18 million overhaul gets city approval. See the newest plans

The Des Moines Urban Design Review Board has approved design plans for an $18 million expansion project at the Blank Park Zoo.

In April, the zoo announced plans to renovate the park. This will be the zoo's first major project since 2013 and the largest expansion in its nearly 60 years of existence.

Construction is anticipated to start before the end of 2024, with completion expected in late 2025 or early 2026, according to documents submitted to the Urban Design Review Board. Plans were reviewed at the board's meeting on Tuesday.

What improvements are coming to the Blank Park Zoo?

The lions will be moving to a space in the Jamaa Kwa Africa exhibit, triple the size of their current enclosure. The addition will include climbing structures, winter accommodations and a breeding facility.

For a better view of the large cats, the zoo is adding a "lion hanger," which will feature a recycled airplane split in half by protective glass. The front end will serve as a climbing feature for lions, and the other half will be a viewing location designed for kids.

The new lion habitat will also create additional viewing spaces for patrons. Two viewing platforms will be constructed to give zoo visitors higher-elevation views of the new habitat areas. The current lion space will be converted into a conservation center for the zoo's tigers .

New Wild Iowa exhibit coming to Blank Park Zoo.

The project will introduce a new Wild Iowa exhibit featuring a facility for seals and sea lions. Visitors can also get a behind-the-scenes look at these creatures with exclusive tours. Additionally, bobcats will be added as a new species to the exhibit.

Other Wild Iowa additions will include:

• A new saltwater filtration system that will reduce the zoo's water consumption.
• A deep-water viewing area for the otter exhibit.
• Floor-to-ceiling windows for guests to get a never-before-seen look at the enclosures.
• Eagle exhibit space and a building with a mock-up of an Iowa river.
• A new aquarium featuring Iowa amphibians.

Cooper Worth is a service/trending reporter for the Des Moines Register. Reach him at cworth@gannett.com or follow him on X @CooperAWorth.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Blank Park Zoo's $18 million overhaul gets city approval. See the newest plans