KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Zoo will reopen its Elephant Expedition to the public Friday after extensive renovations.
The zoo completed the $10-million project just eight months after announcing its plans.
The zoo said in a Facebook post Thursday afternoon its seven African elephants and guests alike will be able to enjoy the improvements.
The exhibit now includes “a more elephant-friendly pool and waterfall” and filtration system that saves around 100,000 gallons of water every few days.
The new elephant exhibit is open at the Kansas City Zoo. @41actionnews @jgkshb pic.twitter.com/EsMjebOZtJ
— Jonathan goede (@jgkshb) May 21, 2020
The zoo shared video Thursday of the elephants enjoying the new water feature.
Workers also added more sand, a safe perimeter for elephants of all sizes and more shade shade structures to the exhibit.
Guests will notice an enlarged viewing area at the elephant demonstration area and new technology for zookeeper chats and programming, among other improved viewing areas, additional seating and more shade.
The zoo also added a tram stop for visitors’ convenience, and upgraded several areas to ADA standards, including walking paths throughout the habitat and the restrooms, which now include an adult changing table.
A mother’s room has also been added.
The zoo has reopened amid the COVID-19 pandemic, but has precautions in place.
Visitors who want enter the zoo and see the new exhibit must reserve a timed entry ticket online, by calling 816-595-1234 or by purchasing it at the ticketing window at the front entrance.
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