ABQ BioPark getting electric train, gray wolf refuge, new event pavilion
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – Millions of dollars in improvements are under construction at the BioPark. Soon, visitors can expect a new event space at the botanic garden, a new train at the heritage farm, and a renovated alligator snapping turtle habitat, funded by gross receipt taxes (GRT).
“GRT funds are allowing us to build best-in-class habitats that far exceed typical zoo animal care standards,” Lynn Tupa, BioPark Zoo manager, said in a press release. “Guests can already see that animals in Asia have increased their natural behaviors and fully engage with their habitats, which elevates their physical and mental wellbeing. We will continue to build and renovate habitats to provide this same extraordinary level of choice and control for more animals in our care.”
“The Biopark’s just so grateful to have this GRT and we’re working really hard to make sure that all the City of Albuquerque and surrounding areas feel the investment of their tax dollars,” said Brandon Gibson, Director of the Biopark.
In 2016, voters approved an eighth of a cent GRT for 15 years. Gibson said that has averaged to about $17-20 million dollars for the BioPark annually.
“We’re about halfway through the GRT so far, and the BioPark has been able to open incredible new habitats and facilities,” said Gibson. So far, completed projects include the Asia Exhibit, Penguin Chill, and the elephant birthing barn.
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In progress projects include a $13 million renovation to Heritage Farm, which shows traditional farming methods. The BioPark announced plans to upgrade in 2023, and now say that the site could be complete in fall of 2024, including a new train at the site.
A $1.3 million event pavilion at the Botanic Garden is also on the way. The city says the shaded space will allow for concerts and private parties and is expected to open this summer.
At the zoo, the alligator snapping turtles are getting a larger pool. Zoo visitors will also get a more immersive viewing experience as the alligator snapping turtle space is reworked at an estimated cost of $900,000.
A $1.1 million improvement to the Mexican gray wolf habitat won’t necessarily give visitors a better view of the animals, but it will give the wolves some space for privacy. A so-called “refuge” for the wolves is being built behind the scenes, the city says. The privacy space will let wolves breed, raise pups, and establish bonds, the city adds.
“We’re going to have a holding for up to five different packs. We’re hoping to open that by late 2024,” said Gibson.
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A handful of other projects are on the agenda, but they will likely take longer to complete. Ultimately, the zoo plans on completely transforming the catwalk exhibit. It will also include an $11 million phase two of the Australia exhibit where people can see wallabies and kangaroos. Phase one of the Australia exhibit is expected to open this summer, where people can walk in an aviary seeing birds of the region.
Overall, the BioPark has put more than $78 million towards projects, repairs, and renovations, according to their annual GRT report. People can learn about the updated master plan and give input here.
