Capital Projects
Thank you, Tacoma voters
In 2014, a Neighborhood Parks & Zoo Improvements and Safety Upgrades Bond passed with 64.5% of the votes. That means Tacoma citizens will see their their parks grow and improve as projects continue to develop through 2024 through the $198 million public investment. And this includes the Zoo!
Zoo Projects
Pacific Seas Aquarium
An aquarium for our oceans.
The Zoo’s 55-year-old North Pacific Aquarium was failing, weakened by decades of salt-water corrosion. The new Pacific Seas Aquarium will highlight Puget Sound marine life while also showcasing exciting new species, and inspiring conservation.
Pacific Seas Aquarium
Rocky Shores
Renovated, expanded.
Recent renovations to Rocky Shores – home to walruses, sea otters, seals, and puffins – improved health and safety features for animals and keepers. The project included a new sea lion exhibit, upgrades to animal life-support systems, and expanded views.
Rocky Shores
Polar Bears
A newer home.
In the near future, the polar bear exhibit will be renovated to meet rising international standards and expanded with the goal of acquiring additional polar bears in the future.
Arctic Tundra
Bond Information
Bond Facts
Project Descriptions
Project Map
Project Timelines
Rocky Shores Exhibit
Now open
Pacific Seas Aquarium
Summer 2016: Construction began
Sept. 7, 2018: Opening
Polar Bear exhibit renovation
Design study in process
Give your input
We'd like to hear from you!
- Send an email to capitalprojects@pdza.org
- Send a letter to Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, 5400 N Pearl St, Tacoma, WA 98407
- Join us on Facebook
- Call us at 253-404-3800