Two new animals were introduced at the Akron Zoo today, carousel animals that is! The Snow Leopard and the Lady Bug were the first of the hand made carousel animals to be shown to the public. Carousel Works out of Mansfield, OH is developing the carousel animals that are each sponsored by individuals and local foundations. The new Akron Zoo Carousel is scheduled to be complete and open to the public on July 31, 2010 and is construction is well underway. There will also be a new picnic area next to the Komodo Dragon building.
This $1.2 Million project is being done responsibly with green elements throughout. The carousel animals are made from basswood which is a sustainable harvested wood. Many of the trees, shrubs, and plants that were removed for the new Akron Zoo Carousel were reused or turned to mulch for the landscaped area. The 165 tons of concrete that was removed was 100% recycled and reused for the new pathways! The 350 LED lights on the carousel are 80% more efficient than other light bulbs.
