Release Date: July 15,2024
The Akron Zoo to Construct a New Hospital
July 15, 2024, AKRON, Ohio – The Akron Zoo will construct a new animal hospital, which will help the zoo continue to provide top-notch veterinary care for the more than 2,000 animals.
The hospital is a $11.95 million project and construction is slated to begin in 2025, with a 2026 opening. The new hospital will be located behind the Landon & Cynthia Knight Pride of Africa area along Diagonal Road.
The Akron Zoo provides in-house care for thousands of animals on a daily basis, including regular check-ups, management of diseases and chronic conditions, surgeries and end-of-life care. The 11,949 square-foot building will include a state-of-the-art surgery suite, intensive care unit and specialized spaces for the different species, including birds, hoofstock, primates and large carnivores.
The Akron Zoo was recently selected to receive $2 million from State of Ohio House Bill 2 for the new hospital.
“Providing the animals we all care so deeply about with exceptional medical care is one of our top priorities at the Akron Zoo,” said Doug Piekarz, president & CEO at the Akron Zoo. “The funds from the State of Ohio allow us to build the kind of medical facility that can best meet the needs of our animals as the zoo continues to grow. We are grateful to the Summit County delegation for their mentorship and continued support.”
The Roger J. Sherman Center for Animal Care, zoo’s current animal hospital, opened in 1995.
The Akron Zoo is open 361 days a year. Peak season hours are 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Admission rates are $9 – $19. Children under two are free and parking is free. For more information visit www.akronzoo.org or call (330) 375-2550.
Founded in 1953, the Akron Zoo is a non-profit, world conservation zoo with more than 2,000 animals from around the world. Located just west of Downtown Akron, the zoo strives to connect your life to wildlife while inspiring lifelong learning and conservation action. The Akron Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). With its more than 200 accredited members, AZA is a leader in global wildlife conservation, and your link to helping animals in their native habitats.