The Little Rock Zoo is embarking on an ambitious expansion.
The $12 million project marks the zoo’s first major expansion in more than a decade. In a groundbreaking ceremony Tuesday, Zoo Director Susan Altrui said the effort is partially to celebrate the zoo’s 100th anniversary.
"Beyond bricks and pathways, this transformation is about deepening the bond between our community and the natural world," Altrui said. "Our mission is to inspire people to value and to conserve wildlife, and with an outpouring of support, together we are making the zoo a vibrant hub of education, sustainability and of discovery."
Altrui says the project will create new spaces for animals, both human and otherwise.
"Our first step will be a new front entrance plaza... and an amphitheater designed to welcome guests into a space that's accessible, immersive and inspiring," she said. "Beyond that, we'll renovate indoor viewing areas, enhance habitats and introduce dynamic new environments for both returning favorites and exciting new species."
Among the zoo residents getting a new home under the project are lemurs, anteaters and capybaras, which will share a habitat with squirrel monkeys. An interactive tortoise exhibit will allow guests to feed bits of lettuce to the animals, Altrui said.
"This new area will also feature beautifully-landscaped areas for guests to rest, take a family photo and engage with sculpture," she said.
Funding for the project comes partially from a bond issue approved by Little Rock voters in 2022, as well as from private donations. It’s expected to be complete by early fall of 2026.
