GRT’s Next Chapter: Gorillas Take Center Stage in ABQ BioPark’s Newest Transformation
2025 GRT Annual Report outlines progress and next steps.
Thanks to the support of Albuquerque voters through the ⅛-cent Gross Receipts Tax (GRT), the ABQ BioPark is entering a bold new phase, and the gorillas are about to get a home makeover.
Last year the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) recognized the ABQ BioPark Zoo with an Exhibit Award for its GRT-funded Asia habitat expansion that opened in the fall of 2023. This area created innovative homes for tigers, snow leopards, Steller’s sea eagles, and notably, two primate species; orangutans and siamangs. The BioPark is excited to share in the 2025 GRT Annual Report that it is building on this momentum and turning its attention to primates once again.
Design is underway to transform the current gorilla habitat, incorporating the former orangutan space to create two expansive areas tailored specifically for gorillas.
“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.”
This striking new renovation to the gorilla habitats will allow guests to see these apes in a space designed to nurture their natural social behaviors and well-being. Construction on this $22 million project is expected to start as early as 2026 and take approximately two years to complete. Funded through the GRT, it marks a major step in the BioPark’s ongoing transformation.
The 2025 GRT Annual Report lists this new plan on the horizon, plus several exciting projects already underway. Later this year construction will begin on the second phase of the Australia Expansion, where guests will be able to encounter kangaroos, wombats, Tasmanian devils, and more.
Designs are also progressing for a refreshed Butterfly Pavilion, a behind-the-scenes care facility called the Science, Health and Aquatic Research Center (SHARC), and a revamped Children’s Fantasy Garden that the BioPark invited the community to help with.
“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 Australia, the Heritage Farm expansion, and the new Festival Green Stage.
The revitalization and modernization of the BioPark is made possible through funding from the GRT and the Albuquerque community.
Since voters approved the ⅛-cent GRT in 2016, the BioPark has undergone a remarkable transformation. What was once a vision is now a living, breathing campus of conservation, learning and connection, all made possible by the people of Albuquerque. So far over $104 million has been invested in the BioPark, and the GRT funding cycle continues through 2031. The BioPark looks forward to continued growth, powered by a community that believes in the value of nature and wildlife.
So whether it’s a first-time visit or a family tradition, now is the perfect time to visit the BioPark and see your investment in action.
Updates to many GRT projects can be found at abqbioparkfacilityplan.com.