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Message for Executive Director - COVID-19

Posted On: Mar 19th, 2020

 

 

 

 

To Our Dedicated Staff, Guests & Supporters,
 

Following the excitement of opening the Nations’ newest zoo, 

I am saddened to say that we are temporarily closing the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo in response to the continued spread of the COVID-19 virus.  We will be temporarily closing the Zoo to the public effective Thursday, March 19, 2020.  This decision was made with the best interest and health of our staff, volunteers, and guests in mind.  While not an easy decision, it is the right decision at this time.

 

Earlier this week, we had instituted a variety of changes to help protect our staff and guests while allowing the Zoo to remain open.  We had been following the recommendations from State health officials, local officials and the CDC for social distancing, increasing cleaning, and hand washing.  We also closed indoor exhibit spaces.  With the continued spread of COVID-19, we felt that it was time to take a more significant step and temporarily close the Zoo.  

 

Our dedicated Animal Care Team and Veterinarian will continue to provide our animals with excellent care throughout the closure.  Our operations staff, and other staff, will continue the sanitization and cleaning protocols to ensure that the facilities remain disinfected and are ready for re-opening as soon as possible.  

 

We will reevaluate our status in two weeks, on April 2nd, and provide updates at that time via our website and social media.  I know our community was very excited about the opening of your new zoo.  We are grateful for your continued support and excitement.  I look forward to inviting you back soon.  In the meantime, please keep yourself and your family safe.

 

Sincerely,
Joel M. Hamilton
Executive Director

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo