Akron Zoo's Giraffe Expansion: A New Era for Wildlife Experiences
- Jun 16
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 11
A Groundbreaking Moment for the Akron Zoo
Story by: **Brittany Moseley
This article was originally published by Signal Akron on June 5, 2026.
The Akron Zoo recently broke ground on its largest expansion to date, unveiling an exciting new giraffe exhibit. This significant development marks a pivotal moment for the zoo and its commitment to wildlife conservation and education.
The Lehner Family Foundation Giraffe Journey
The Lehner Family Foundation Giraffe Journey will span approximately 9.25 acres and is set to open in 2028. This expansive area will accommodate up to 12 giraffes, along with ostriches, wildebeests, and Marabou storks. The design aims to create an immersive experience that brings visitors closer to these magnificent animals.
Enhancing Visitor Engagement
The Giraffe Journey will feature both outdoor and indoor viewing areas. Guests will have the opportunity to participate in year-round feeding experiences, allowing them to connect with the animals in a meaningful way. Doug Piekarz, the president and CEO of the Akron Zoo, emphasized the importance of this new habitat. He stated that it will provide an "immersive experience to bring people closer to wildlife."
Elena Bell, the zoo's director of marketing and events, shared that the Akron Zoo is part of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums. The zoo will adhere to the organization's giraffe species survival plan. This initiative ensures that the giraffes in the new habitat will come from other accredited zoos, although specific sources have not yet been disclosed.
A Comprehensive Expansion
The giraffe expansion is part of the Pride of Africa section of the zoo. It is strategically located near the zoo’s new animal hospital, which is scheduled to open this year. The expansion will also feature a concessions stand, a gift shop, and a tower ride, providing entertainment for guests of all ages.
Funding for this ambitious $21 million project comes from various sources. These include corporate partners, private foundations, individual donors, the zoo's revenue operations, and a Summit County property tax levy. According to Bell, for every $1 of levy support the zoo receives, it generates nearly $8 in economic impact. This statistic underscores the zoo's role as a vital community asset.
Community Support and Political Engagement
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by several local politicians, including Summit County Executive Ilene Shapiro and state Senator Casey Weinstein. Weinstein humorously welcomed attendees to "giraffic park," referencing the iconic film "Jurassic Park." He also announced that the Ohio Senate had approved a $740,000 appropriation for the giraffe expansion, with a vote from the Ohio House of Representatives expected soon. The state has also provided funding for the new animal hospital.
Shapiro expressed her admiration for Piekarz and the zoo's contributions to the community. She shared her enthusiasm for the expansion, stating, "Imagine, giraffes roaming in Akron. How does that sound?"
A Legacy of Conservation and Education
The Akron Zoo has a rich history, having opened its doors in 1953 as the Akron Children’s Zoo. It was one of the first zoos to transition to a nonprofit model. In May, the zoo welcomed three new animals: Ripley, a South American monkey, and two aquatic salamanders named Neo and Xochi. These additions reflect the zoo's ongoing commitment to conservation and education.
Conclusion: Looking Ahead
The upcoming Giraffe Journey at the Akron Zoo represents a significant step forward in wildlife conservation and public engagement. As we look ahead to its opening in 2028, it is clear that this expansion will enhance the zoo's ability to foster a deeper connection between visitors and wildlife. The Akron Zoo continues to be a leader in creating innovative, impactful spaces that enhance well-being and empower communities.
This expansion not only enriches the zoo's offerings but also serves as a testament to the importance of wildlife conservation efforts. I look forward to witnessing the positive impact this project will have on our community and the wildlife we cherish.
