GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Parking at John Ball Zoo will soon cost $5 for guests who don’t live in Kent County.
In a Friday release, the zoo said the change will be implemented “in the coming weeks.” Parking will remain free for Kent County residents and zoo members.
Pygmy hippo calf born at John Ball Zoo
Revenue from the parking change will support the “Zoo’s mission to save wildlife and wild places, maintenance of Zoo facilities and investments in guest amenities,” the release says.
Other big changes are coming to the zoo as part of its new master plan. Work has already began on the Zoo’s African expansion, which will bring giraffes to the zoo. The zoo is also set to open the new, larger habitat for its otters next year.
Giraffes? Sea lions? 30-foot waterfall? John Ball Zoo looks toward the future
“John Ball Zoo appreciates the continued support from our community as we implement this positive change for guests, our animals and the community,” Andy McIntyre, chief operating officer at the John Ball Zoo, said in the release. “We have continued to receive positive feedback from our guests about the enhanced accessibility of our new parking and its contribution to an overall positive guest experience.”…