Revitalization

The Valley Zoo Revitalization Project

In 2005, the City of Edmonton approved a Master Plan to revitalize the Valley Zoo. The Master Plan proposes continuing developments to the zoo over the next ten years. The projected costs for realization of the Master Plan were valued at approximately $30 million in 2005.

The Master Plan is now called the Valley Zoo Revitalization Project, and the VZDS is committed to raising $9 million in support of the Revitalization Project for the Valley Zoo. We are confident that donations from individuals, corporations, government and private foundations, we will enable us to reach this goal.

A series of construction projects will transform the Edmonton Valley Zoo.  Given the challenge of building habitats on a site that is already in use by animals, staff must thoughtfully organize the construction schedule and adjust it as necessary. Here’s what is planned:

Polar Extremes Phase 1: Arctic Shores

Future home of seals/sea lion, Arctic fox and ground squirrels

Project stage: Construction
Opening: Fall 2011
Budget: $16.7 million, including $7 million from the Government of Alberta

Located in the open area west of the zoo entrance, Phase 1 of Polar Extremes will replicate an Arctic shoreline, allowing guests to get closer to animals and nature. Part of the learning experience will be exploring a pingo, a unique Arctic landform, and climbing on a whale bone play structure. The quality of life for the seals and sea lion currently living at the zoo will be improved with a new indoor/outdoor pool. Arctic fox and ground squirrels will also live here.

As part of the City of Edmonton’s commitment to the environment, the exhibit includes many sustainable features, including:

• Green roof to minimize stormwater runoff
• Capturing storm water and treating it on site using streams and a salt water marsh
• Treating the water in the seal/sea lion pools on site with a combination of mechanical equipment and natural wetlands so it can be reused in the animals aquatic home
• Drought tolerant landscaping
• Dark sky compliant exterior lighting
• Use of pine-beetle kill wood in building construction

Polar Extremes Phase 2

The longer-term capital plan includes the development of Polar Extremes Phase 2, which would feature the other polar habitats including the ecosystem of Antarctica.

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