Building for the Future: A New Era Begins at the Little Rock Zoo

LITTLE ROCK (June 5, 2025) – As the Little Rock Zoo celebrates its 100th anniversary, we’re not just looking back—we’re building forward. One of our most ambitious projects yet is about to begin: a complete transformation of the Zoo’s front entrance and surrounding animal habitats.

Construction begins this June and we’re excited to bring you along for the journey. This blog series will be your behind-the-scenes pass to the progress—featuring updates, timelines, and sneak peeks of what’s coming to your Little Rock Zoo.

🛠️ Project Overview

Phase 1: Preparation and Fencing (June 2025)

• Construction fencing will go up the week of June 9, after animals are relocated out of the construction zone.
• Renderings and diagrams of the future layout will be added to the construction fence.
• Fencing will enclose:
• Pathways alongside the lemur habitat
• The area behind the Nature Playground
• The Mushroom structure in the front plaza

Pathway Changes & Guest Flow Adjustments

To keep your visit safe and enjoyable:

• During construction, the Great Apes area will operate as a one-way path. Guests will still be able to view all of the Great Ape habitats—including orangutans, chimpanzees, and gorillas—before turning around and exiting the same way.
• Guest exits will be routed:
• The main path between Penguin and the Kudu habitats
• Through the Cheetah Outpost path

Phase 2: Plaza Resurfacing & Structure Removal (Mid June–July 2025)

• Removal of the Mushroom and damaged sidewalks near the Front plaza restrooms begins. The Carousel is expected to remain open during this phase of construction. We’ll keep you informed of any updates.
• Estimated Timeline: 3–4 weeks for demolition and new concrete pouring.
• Once complete:
• All Front plaza restrooms will reopen

The Mushroom structure—an iconic part of the Zoo’s history—will be taken down to make way for a modern entry experience. Sidewalk repairs will offer smoother, more accessible pathways for guests.

Phase 3: Major Demolition and Site Work (Summer–Fall 2025)

• Crushing existing concrete to fill and stabilize the old lemur and spider monkey moats
• Estimated timeline: 3–4 months
• Equipment and noise:
• Primary tool: Pulverizer (quieter than standard jackhammers)
• Hammer attachment used sparingly for thick concrete sections

The old spider monkey and lemur habitats will be transformed as part of our commitment to building a more sustainable Zoo. Existing concrete will be crushed and reused to fill and stabilize the area, reducing waste and preparing the ground for exciting new animal experiences. This phase recycles the old to make way for the future.

Phase 4: Construction Period (Fall 2025–Fall 2026)

• This phase includes the full build-out of new habitats, guest amenities, and entry enhancements
• Approximate timeline: 10 months
• Subject to weather and final design decisions

With groundwork complete, full-scale construction can begin on the Zoo’s reimagined entry experience. Over the next several months, guests will see the transformation take shape—from new building structures to pathways and landscaping. This phase brings the vision to life and lays the foundation for a more welcoming, immersive, and engaging Zoo entrance for all.

Project Timeline

• Expected timeline: 14-18 months
• Subject to weather and final design decisions

This transformative project will revitalize the Zoo’s entry experience with updated pathways, enhanced habitats, and new animal species. Construction is expected to take approximately 14 to 18 months, beginning in June 2025 and continuing through fall 2026.

Coming Soon: What to Expect After Construction

This transformation represents a bold new chapter for the Zoo and will bring exciting updates, including:

• A reimagined entry plaza with a water feature, sculpture, and an updated design
• Three updated animal buildings with indoor dayroom viewing
• A refreshed lemur habitat with improved guest visibility
• A brand-new home for our giant anteaters
• The return of capybaras to the Little Rock Zoo
• A new species: squirrel monkeys!
• A relocated Aldabra tortoise habitat with new opportunities for guest interaction

Things to Expect During Your Visit

The Zoo will remain open during construction, but your visit may look a little different. Please plan for:

• Temporary pathway adjustments and occasional detours
• Limited restroom access in the front plaza only
• Construction noise, especially during demolition periods
• New signs throughout the Zoo to help guide you and keep you informed

Watch Us Grow

This project is about more than construction—it’s about the next 100 years of conservation, education, and connection. Whether you’re a longtime member or a first-time visitor, we’re grateful to have you by our side as we grow.

Stay tuned to this blog series for regular updates, behind-the-scenes stories, and progress photos as we build the future of your Little Rock Zoo.

We appreciate your patience and support as we improve your Zoo experience!