NC Zoo announces multi-million dollar expansion plan

ASHEBORO, N.C. (WTVD) -- The North Carolina Zoo is expanding!

The Zoo will build two new regions: Asia and Australia. According to WGHP, those expansions will take place over the next five years.

The Asia expansion will cost $46 million. Construction is expected to start in early 2020.

In addition to tigers, red pandas, and Komodo dragons, the Asia area will feature a brand new cafe that can seat up to 300 people.

The Australia expansion is on deck after Asia. The zoo is still asking for $20 million in funding to help complete plans for Australia.

An aviary featuring Australian bird species and an exhibit dedicated to Kangaroos will be featured in the new Australia section.

Gerry Parker, the zoo's director of planning and construction, said the goal with these expansions is to make the NC Zoo a multi-day destination for guests.