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Topeka Zoo reports growth, new exhibits and summer opening for Tiger Trails
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Summary
Topeka Zoo leaders told council the zoo expanded education programs to reach nearly 13,000 people in 2025, secured AAZA inspection success, added animals and volunteers, and is on schedule to open Tiger Trails and Den Academy July 29, 2026.
The Topeka Zoo told the City Council on April 14 that 2025 was a year of expansion in programming, membership and capital planning.
Christina Castellano, chief executive officer, said the zoo delivered more than 400 education programs that reached nearly 13,000 people, expanded membership to roughly 5,000 household accounts, reintroduced preschool classes, and launched adult camps. She highlighted expanded access through "museums for all" discounts, a library passport program and free community days; the zoo also reported more than 1,000,000 lights and 200 displays for a holiday attraction that drew volunteers and visitors.
Castellano briefed council on the Tiger Trails and Den Academy capital project — part of the zoo’s five-year master plan — and said construction remains on schedule with an opening target of July 29, Global Tiger Day. She described the project as an educational habitat that will offer close experiences with Sumatran tigers and provide new hands-on learning for children. She also described a new Discovery Forest project to reimagine an ape-themed building and plans for visitor engagement such as Washed Ashore seasonal exhibits tied to Earth Day programming.
Council members asked about camps and adult learning offerings, mural placement for public viewing, and accessibility efforts. The mayor and council thanked zoo leaders for community engagement and fundraising successes.
Provenance: Presentation begins SEG 404; zoo Q&A continues through SEG 869.
