The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium announces plans for a new aquarium
COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has unveiled plans for the new John F. Wolfe Aquarium with more than 10,000 animals, more than 300 species, and over a million gallons of water.
According to a press release, the new aquarium was made possible thanks to a $50 million gift from the Robert F. Wolfe and Edgar T. Wolfe Foundation. Which is the largest philanthropic gift ever received by the Columbus Zoo.
“This is an extraordinary project that really helps complete and really fill out our interpretive message here at the Columbus Zoo,” said Tom Schmid, president and CEO of the zoo. “So, if you think about our current program, we interpret terrestrial habitats all over the world. This aquarium will allow us to explore what is essentially the majority of what covers the earth in marine and fresh water habitats. So bringing fourth these amazing places, taking folks around the world to experience the marine world and the fresh water world it’s going to be just an extraordinary experience. ”
The Wolfe Aquarium will feature five major galleries; the Amazon River Basin, the Pacific Northwest, the Open Ocean, the Indo-Pacific Reef, and the Scioto River gallery.
“One thing we’re really excited about is the Scioto River Habitat,” said Becky Ellsworth, a curator with the Columbus Zoo. “This is something that you’re only going to be able to see at the John F. Wolfe Aquarium. We’re working with our partners to make sure that is perfect and we have animals wellbeing at the forefront of every decision that we’re making. I think Columbus is going to be really surprised at what’s underneath the waters of our Scioto River ”
The goal is to start the the $175 million project in 2027 with a hopes to open the John F. Wolfe Aquarium in 2029. The Columbus Zoo says the aquarium will be a separately ticketed attraction.
