Zoo Reopens; Safety Protocols Prevent COVID-19 Spread

Seal of Little Rock
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE :
Friday, Jul 10, 2020

Media Release

City of Little Rock Public Relations (501) 371-6801

L. Lamor Williams, APR | (o) 501 371-4421 |(c) 501 804-4822 Joy E. Matlock| (o) 501 379-1859| (c) 501 580-6286 Susan Altrui | (o) 501 661-7208 | (c) 501 351-0273

The Little Rock Zoo is happy to announce that it will reopen this Saturday, July 11, after the Zoo was temporarily closed when an employee tested positive for COVID-19. The Zoo is pleased to report that any exposed employees have tested negative and that the Zoo has conducted deep cleaning of facilities to ensure added safety of employee and guest areas.

Zoo Director Susan Altrui said that Zoo policies, including requirements of Zoo employees to wear masks while working on Zoo grounds, were critical in preventing the spread of the virus. Other protocols such as limiting exposure between team members and enhanced sanitizing also likely helped prevent the spread. “Wearing masks works to prevent the spread of COVID-19, and we will continue this practice to keep our guests, staff, volunteers and animals safe,” said Altrui. Zoo guests age 10 and older are also required to wear masks when attending the Zoo.

The Zoo will reopen on Saturday morning at 9 a.m. and advanced ticket reservations will be available online at LittleRockZoo.com. The Zoo has limited the number of guests that are allowed in at timed intervals to enhance social distancing and prevent congestion at the front gate and other areas. Timed entry blocks will start at 9 a.m. each day with the last available time slot at 2 p.m. The Zoo grounds close at 4:30 p.m.  

To learn more about all safety enhancements at the Little Rock Zoo, including a one-way path and enhanced sanitation practices, please visit the Zoo’s website at LittleRockZoo.com.

About the Zoo
The Little Rock Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.  Look for the AZA logo whenever you visit a zoo or aquarium as your assurance that you are supporting a facility dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you and a better future for all living things.  With its more than 200 accredited members, AZA is a leader in global wildlife conservation and your link to helping animals in their native habitats. For more information, visit www.aza.org.

About the City of Little Rock’s Response to COVID-19
Residents may visit LittleRock.gov/covid19 for all information about the City’s efforts related to COVID-19, including the newly created Small Business Emergency Assistance Program. Volunteers are needed to assist with the grab-and-go feeding efforts for vulnerable populations, including students and seniors. Sign up at LittleRock.gov/volunteer. The Little Rock Cares Emergency Relief Fund benefits the grab-and-go feeding effort and the purchase of personal protective equipment (PPE). Donations of PPE are also accepted. Donate here or visit LittleRock.gov/covid19 and click on the Little Rock Cares Emergency Relief Fund button. Follow the City of Little Rock on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @CityLittleRock.