Your BioPark Investment is Growing New Spaces and More Ways to Connect With Nature

From new exhibits like Running Wild: Cheetahs and More to major infrastructure improvements, transformative projects are reshaping the ABQ BioPark. The 2026 Gross Receipts Tax (GRT) Annual Report highlights progress made over the past year at the Zoo, Aquarium, and Botanic Garden through Albuquerque voters' continued investment in the voter-approved 1/8-cent tax.

“This report is really a thank-you to Albuquerque voters,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “Because of that support, people have new places to check out, animals are getting enhanced care, and the BioPark is growing in a way that reflects who we are as a city.”

This year major investments in animal care and conservation helped make the BioPark an even better experience for guests, plants and animals. For guests, that progress can be seen in places like:

• Running Wild: Cheetahs and More with renovation of the former Catwalk, including a refreshed 14,000-square-foot cheetah habitat.
• The Botanic Garden, where Lebanon and Beyond adds a new space shaped by Mediterranean plantings, Lebanese-inspired architecture and New Mexico flora.
• Tadpole Springs, giving families a place to play and cool down while they explore the Aquarium and gardens.

The report also highlights improvements for the BioPark’s smallest, but equally important, residents. For the alligator snapping turtle, that means a larger pool and a more immersive habitat to enjoy while giving guests a closer look at a threatened species from Southern waterways.

There are also updates behind the scenes that guests might not be able to see, but whose impact can be felt.

For example, the BioPark’s new on-site CT scanner gives veterinary teams faster, more detailed images without transporting animals off-site. And the 4.5-acre behind-the-scenes Mexican Wolf Conservation Facility is expanding the BioPark’s role in breeding, rehabilitation and pre-release care for one of North America’s most endangered mammals. This facility supports wolf pack bonds and prepares them for the next step in the recovery effort.

“What I love about this year’s report is that it shows how much care goes into every part of the park,” said ABQ BioPark Director Brandon Gibson. “Guests might see a refreshed habitat or a new planting, but there is also lots of thoughtful work happening behind the scenes. It all connects back to caring for the animals and plants here, supporting conservation, and helping people feel closer to nature.”

The BioPark is also invested in aquatic animal care. Construction continues on the Science, Health and Aquatic Research Center, also known as SHARC, a $19 million behind-the-scenes Aquarium facility that will expand saltwater species quarantine, and rehabilitation and care for sharks, rays, sea turtles, coral and more.

A recent performance audit by the Office of Internal Audit confirmed 100% compliance for every dollar of GRT funds used between its 2016 inception and March 2025. The audit concluded that all revenues and expenditures were properly administered according to Council Resolution R-16-68 and aligned with the BioPark’s Facility Plan.

From the moment guests step through the gates, the impact of Albuquerque’s investment is apparent and continues to make the BioPark a place where people can connect with nature and wildlife in powerful and memorable ways.