Columbus Zoo and Aquarium kicks off $40 million project to revamp North America exhibits

Dean Narciso, Columbus Dispatch
·2 min read
Artist rendering of proposed North America Trek exhibit, a $40 million reconstruction of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium's oldest area of the zoo. Shown are exhibits for the Mexican Wolves and other species. (Credit: Columbus Zoo and Aquarium)
Artist rendering of proposed North America Trek exhibit, a $40 million reconstruction of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium's oldest area of the zoo. Shown are exhibits for the Mexican Wolves and other species. (Credit: Columbus Zoo and Aquarium)

Mountain lions, moose, reindeer, and wolves may not be native to Ohio, at least within the last 200 years, but they are to North America.

And the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is investing a record $40 million to showcase them in a two-phase revamping of its North America region of the Powell-based zoo.

Dubbed "North America Trek," the project's goal is to modernize the zoo's oldest area, showcase the continent's native species and promote conservation of some of those that might become threatened due to climate change, over-development and other natural and man-made changes.

Groundbreaking was Oct. 24, with completion of the first phase in spring 2025.

“The North America Trek project represents our next step forward in the Columbus Zoo’s commitment to animal well-being, wildlife conservation, and education. As the transformation of the North America region takes shape, it promises to offer visitors an immersive experience like no other while strengthening the Zoo's pivotal role in fostering a love for animals and a dedication to their protection,” Tom Schmid, president and CEO of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, said in a news release.

The project includes two phases, the first focused on new habitats for some of North America's most iconic species including Mexican wolves, trumpeter swans, song birds, bald eagle, black bear, and North America river otters in new and improved habitats. The North America region is a haven for animals that are non-releasable, orphaned, or in rehabilitation.

The second phase will enhance the wolverine, Canada lynx, Sandhill crane, reindeer and moose areas.

About 70% of North America animals have permanent placement at the zoo following displacement by natural disasters, being orphaned, rescued or rehabilitated following injuries. Notable are three mountain lion cubs who were severely burned in the California wildfires now being cared for here in Columbus.

Major funding for the project is coming from Battelle, which has gifted more than $2.6 million to the Columbus Zoo and The Wilds.

"The reimagined North America region will serve as a window to native wildlife, fostering curiosity and a spirit of conservation of our future generations," said Wes Hall, Battelle's vice president of philanthropy and education in a prepared statement.

Artist rendering of proposed North America Trek exhibit, a $40 million reconstruction of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium's oldest area of the zoo. Shown are exhibits for the North American river otters. (Credit: Columbus Zoo and Aquarium)
Artist rendering of proposed North America Trek exhibit, a $40 million reconstruction of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium's oldest area of the zoo. Shown are exhibits for the North American river otters. (Credit: Columbus Zoo and Aquarium)

The Ohio Division of Wildlife has donated almost $1 million to renovate the existing "My House," a building located next to the Bob Evans "My Barn" exhibit. Once completed, the facility will be named the "Ohio Center for Wildlife Conservation" and focus on local conservation initiatives of the Columbus Zoo and The Wilds.

“We are thrilled and proud to partner with the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium on this amazing project that will highlight the great conservation work being done right here in Ohio,” Mary Mertz, director of Ohio Department of Natural Resources, said in a prepared statement.

Artist rendering of proposed North America Trek exhibit, a $40 million reconstruction of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium's oldest area of the zoo. Exhibits include a bridge and overlook, displaying Bald Eagles and other bird species. (Credit: Columbus Zoo and Aquarium)
Artist rendering of proposed North America Trek exhibit, a $40 million reconstruction of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium's oldest area of the zoo. Exhibits include a bridge and overlook, displaying Bald Eagles and other bird species. (Credit: Columbus Zoo and Aquarium)

dnarciso@dispatch.com

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: New exhibits to modernize Columbus Zoo and Aquarium's oldest area