Sunset Zoo has received unanimous approval from the Manhattan City Commission on September 1, 2020 to begin the nearly $4.3 million construction endeavor to build a new exhibit. Once complete, Expedition Asia will provide guests with a world-class experience; immersing community members within the animals’ native forest habitat. 

The project’s funding campaign raised over $2.2 million from the Sunset Zoological Park and Wildlife Conservation Fund. An additional $2 million came from the 2006 City of Manhattan Quality of Life sales tax fund from the City of Manhattan. Additional contributions may be made by donating to Exhibition Asia's Wall of the Wild at www.sunsetzoo.com.
 
“We worked hard to bring this to fruition and are very excited,” said Bev Fulton, Sunset Zoo Trust President. "Sunset Zoo is one of the City’s main attractions, and there is no exhibit quite like this anywhere. This will do wonderful things for our community, and we need that right now.”
 
The team of KBS Constructors Inc. will manage construction and estimate that work will begin within the next 30 days. "We estimate the project will remain on an 11-month timeline and be complete in the fall of 2021. It will take the animals some time to acclimate before opening fully to the public," according to Sunset Zoo Director, Scott Shoemaker. 

Celebrating the approval of the building process for Expedition Asia pictured are Larry Fox, Trust Board Treasurer; Bev Fulton, Trust Board President; Joel Kriss, KBS Constructors; and Scott Shoemaker, Sunset Zoo Director. 

How Expedition Asia Makes A Difference

Better care for our animals and guests.

Expedition Asia will strengthen Sunset Zoo's ability to provide modern animal care and guest experience. Learn about the need.

• A design that moves the Zoo forward.

  
  Expedition Asia is more than just a facelift; it will revitalize this portion of the zoo. Check out the design in full detail.

• Tigers, sloth bears, leopards, oh my!

   
  This project will give you a front-row seat to connect with amazing animals. Learn more about them.

• Join the expedition, donate now to Expedition Asia.

   
  Your tax-deductible gift builds upon a legacy of community engagement at Sunset Zoo and ensures excellence with animal care and guest experiences. Donate now to Expedition Asia.

Become an Expedition Leader

Several giving opportunities are available with Expedition Asia, as well as the ability to pledge major gifts over multiple years. To find out how you can be a part of this transformational project, contact Melissa Kirkwood, Marketing and Development Officer, at 785-587-2737 or melissa.kirkwood@cityofmhk.com.