Groundbreaking Kicked Off Construction of the Zoo’s Largest Capital Project in its 142-Year History
Cleveland Metroparks, Cleveland Zoological Society and CrossCountry Mortgage today broke ground on the Primate Forest, a state-of-the-art destination that will reimagine the experience for guests and strengthen and showcase the Zoo’s impact as a world-class leader in global conservation, animal wellbeing and management, as well as science education and research.
Cleveland Metroparks revealed publicly a detailed first look inside the Primate Forest destination. The most significant capital project in the Zoo’s history will include four innovative and interactive spaces – the CrossCountry Mortgage Forest Home, and three distinct animal habitats, Tropical Forest, Orangutan Forest and Gorilla Forest.
“Primate Forest will be a vibrant and inclusive community asset that elevates the often-groundbreaking zoological work taking place right here in Cleveland. It will be one of the most notable tourist destinations for our region and once open, free and accessible to Cuyahoga County and Hinckley Township residents as part of ‘Free Monday,’” said Cleveland Metroparks CEO Brian M. Zimmerman. “We are grateful and humbled by the support of CrossCountry Mortgage and our project partners who have made an extraordinary vision a reality for our community.”
“Construction of the multi-year renovation and expansion will bring science, research and animal care front and center, allowing us to engage our guests with the Zoo’s nationally recognized work and care for our animals,” said Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Executive Director Dr. Chris Kuhar. “Guests will be able to observe gorillas and orangutans participate in their preventative health programs such as vaccinations, blood draws and heart health monitoring. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is one of only a few zoos that has successfully established animal participation in these critical welfare procedures.”
The project will build upon the legacy of the former RainForest, that was home to more than 10,000 plants and 600 animals from the forests of Asia, Africa, and the Americas. Features of the three new animal habitats and the educational space will enhance education programming, improve the guest experience and facilitate a stronger connection to these species and their counterparts in the wild.
The initial construction includes the renovation and modernization of more than 63,000 square feet of the former RainForest structure, to be renamed the Tropical Forest, and the addition of more than 33,500 square feet of new construction containing the CrossCountry Mortgage Forest Home and the expanded Orangutan Forest habitat. A future phase will include construction of the Gorilla Forest that will create a new home for the Zoo’s growing gorilla troop.
The CrossCountry Mortgage Forest Home will include a new central entry and gathering space that will immerse guests into a forest scene created through projection mapping to illustrate how the forest, people and animals are interconnected. The space will also feature enhanced dining and retail shopping opportunities, an indoor play area, and flexible conference and meeting room space overlooking the future Gorilla Forest.
“The investment in the Primate Forest and the creation of the CrossCountry Mortgage Forest Home will not only transform the Cleveland landscape and become a new destination for Northeast Ohio but will establish a home for learning and discovery for generations to come,” said CrossCountry Mortgage Founder and CEO, Ron Leonhardt. “We’re proud to support the Cleveland Metroparks and the Cleveland Zoological Society in bringing this vision to life.”
The Orangutan Forest will maintain the iconic 40-foot-tall geodesic dome, but expand to include a complex outdoor space that is engaging for both the orangutans and visitors alike. The orangutans will explore more complex climbing structures and new nesting opportunities. An elevated trail will provide guests with a new viewing experience, the first of its kind at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. A new two-story ‘dayroom’ will give orangutans choice between the indoor and outdoor habitats and bring guests closer to animal training and husbandry.
The Tropical Forest, expanded Orangutan Forest and new CrossCountry Mortgage Forest Home are expected to open in 2026. Planning and design of the future Gorilla Forest will include a 25,000 square foot world-class gorilla habitat, including a management hub to highlight gorilla training and healthcare, significant forest and garden space, and a guest viewing tower. Fundraising for the Gorilla Forest continues.
The initial phase is approximately $60 million and is fully funded through partnerships, philanthropic donations, state capital funds and Zoo capital funds.
The construction of Primate Forest will coincide with additional site-work that will transform the guest entry to the Zoo along Wildlife Way. Upgrades will enhance the arrival experience for guests, with improved parking and accessibility.