Major expansion set to transform the des moines landmark, enhancing educational and conservation efforts

Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines, Iowa, has announced a groundbreaking $18 million campaign aimed at significantly expanding and renovating the facility. This campaign, dubbed “Expand the Impact,” marks the largest renovation endeavor in the zoo’s nearly 60-year history. According to the zoo’s announcement, over half of the required funds have already been secured, and the zoo is set to honor its major donors at an upcoming news conference.

Anne Shimerdla, the CEO of Blank Park Zoo, emphasized the enduring appeal of the zoo to Iowans of all ages who visit to explore and learn about the diverse animal kingdom. The “Expand the Impact Capital Campaign” is designed to build on this foundational interest and passion for wildlife, aiming to enrich visitor experiences significantly and bolster the zoo’s educational and conservation missions.

With construction anticipated to start this summer, the ambitious project promises to introduce new exhibits, enhance existing ones, and improve overall infrastructure. This expansion not only aims to increase the zoo’s capacity to house and care for a wider variety of animals but also to provide more immersive and educational experiences for visitors. 

As a beloved institution in Des Moines, Blank Park Zoo’s expansion is expected to make a significant positive impact on the community, fostering a deeper appreciation for wildlife and the natural world among zoo-goers of all ages