America's first Zoo announced its largest exhibition and transformative project in over 10 years.
The Philadelphia Zoo announced a milestone $5 million gift from the W. P. Carey Foundation that will spark the transformation of its Bear Country exhibit. Working with PGAV Destinations design firm, the Zoo will embark on a significant expansion and renovation, which will include the extension of the Zoo’s revolutionary Zoo360 trail system and the addition of a third bear habitat.
These enhancements will allow the Zoo to continue to provide the highest standard of care and quality of life for animals; create an awe-inspiring guest experience that increases opportunities for guests to get close to animals and see them in an entirely new way; provide new educational opportunities for school and community-based programs; and highlight the Zoo’s conservation work advocating for and protecting species around the globe.
The W. P. Carey Foundation, with family roots in Philadelphia and a history of charitable giving in the region and throughout the country, has pledged lead charitable support for the project. In addition, this $20-million effort is being graciously supported by the City of Philadelphia, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, donors and continued fundraising efforts. It is also supported by the William Penn Foundation, whose investment further emphasizes their commitment to making the arts and culture organizations in Philadelphia more accessible to all local residents.
The Zoo will break ground on the new exhibit in early 2025 and the new Bear Country is expected to open in spring of 2026.
“Philadelphia Zoo has provided a unique and innovative experience with wildlife that can change lives,” says President and CEO, Dr. Jo-Elle Mogerman. “This state-of-the-art exhibit will not only transform our campus and give our guests brand new ways to see and interact with our bears with the addition of a brand-new habitat and Zoo360 trail, but it will enhance the conservation work we can do to protect endangered bears around the world.”
As construction begins, the Zoo’s three bears will be moving to other AZA accredited facilities. Sloth bears, Bhalu and Kayla, are expected to return to the Zoo once construction is complete. Andean bear, Sinchi, has been paired with another female and will remain at another zoo.
The Zoo’s colony of Humboldt penguins will also be temporarily relocated to another AZA accredited facility. The Zoo’s flamboyance of flamingos will be relocated to a habitat south of McNeil Avian Center.
