The ABQ BioPark is moving forward with plans for a major renovation of its gorilla habitat, a $22 million project that will create two expansive areas specifically designed for the park’s gorillas.
The new habitats will incorporate the space previously used for orangutans, which were moved to the park’s award-winning Asia expansion that opened in fall 2023. Construction is expected to begin as early as 2026 and take approximately two years to complete.
“The new habitats will have more vertical structures for climbing as well as water features, special enrichment zones, and expansive views for the apes,” said ABQ BioPark Director Brandon Gibson. “They will offer both warming and cooling areas outdoors as well as modernized indoor habitats to ensure the gorillas’ comfort year-round.”
The renovation is funded through Albuquerque’s ⅛-cent Gross Receipts Tax (GRT), which voters approved in 2016 to support BioPark improvements. The gorilla project represents the latest phase in the park’s ongoing transformation, detailed in the recently released 2025 GRT Annual Report.
The BioPark’s momentum builds on recent success. Last year, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums recognized the park with an Exhibit Award for its Asia habitat expansion, which created new homes for tigers, snow leopards, Steller’s sea eagles, orangutans and siamangs.
Several other major projects are currently in development. Construction will begin later this year on the second phase of the Australia Expansion, featuring kangaroos, wombats, Tasmanian devils and other Australian species. The park is also progressing with designs for a refreshed Butterfly Pavilion, a new Science, Health and Aquatic Research Center (SHARC) and a revamped Children’s Fantasy Garden.
“The BioPark is growing in visible and meaningful ways, from immersive habitats to reimagined spaces,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “These upgrades ensure that our BioPark will continue to be a leader in animal welfare, conservation, and education.”
In 2024 alone, the GRT supported more than $26 million in construction projects, including the first phase of the Australia expansion, the Heritage Farm expansion, and the new Festival Green Stage.
Since the tax was approved nine years ago, over $104 million has been invested in BioPark improvements. The GRT funding cycle continues through 2031, with updates on various projects available at abqbioparkfacilityplan.com.
The gorilla habitat renovation is designed to encourage the animals’ natural social behaviors and provide better viewing opportunities for visitors, continuing the BioPark’s focus on both animal welfare and educational experiences for the community.