Adminstrators of the David Traylor Zoo and Emporia Friends of the Zoo are chomping at the bit to start massive renovations at the facility.
Work should start soon as a result of the $4.3 million Oasis capital campaign. EFOZ Board Chair Bobby Thompson has called the project “transformational,” and he’s excited to get started — as soon as things dry out.
Early work includes moving the kookaburra exhibit, renovating the entrance and renovating the waterfowl pond. Other major projects are coming, including renovations and expansions for current exhibits, renovations to the Hopkins Family Zoo Education Center and construction of a pavilion near that building, a new walk-through portion of the zoo for public events and construction of a nature play area and a new North American river otter exhibit.
Work is set to begin in April, a few weeks after the 35th annual EFOZ Roundup Auction, and event co-chair Janel Wiederholt says this will continue the zoo’s position as an area attraction.
The EFOZ Roundup Auction will be at the Fairgrounds Anderson Building on Friday. Doors open at 6 pm, with the live auction starting at 7 pm. Tickets are $25 each or $200 per table. As many as 400 people could attend.
More information about the auction and the upcoming work is online at www.emporiazoo.org or by calling 341-4365.