Merced, CA (January 2, 2026) — The Merced Applegate Park Zoo announced it will temporarily close to the public starting January 1 as crews begin work on a major renovation project that will include a brand-new black bear exhibit, improved pathways throughout the zoo, and an upgraded gift shop entrance. The closure is planned to last through April 2, allowing construction to proceed safely and efficiently without guests on site.
Officials with the City of Merced Parks and Community Services shared the closure details in a social media post, noting that the shutdown will enable a team to complete several improvements that have been in planning for months. These upgrades are part of a broader effort to enhance the guest experience and invest in infrastructure that supports both visitors and the animals at the zoo.
Among the most significant changes is the development of a new black bear enclosure. Earlier reporting confirms that the zoo secured funding for this project and that the new habitat will replace an older space — transforming it into one of the zoo’s largest exhibits. Plans for the black bear area include naturalistic elements such as water features and terrain designed to reflect the species’ native Sierra Nevada environment, with completion expected in late spring 2026.
In addition to the new bear habitat, guests returning in April can expect smoother and more accessible walking paths around the zoo and a refreshed entrance into the gift shop, creating a more welcoming arrival experience. These improvements are intended to make the zoo easier to navigate and more inviting for families, school groups, and other visitors.
City leaders and zoo staff emphasize that the renovation project is an investment in the long-term success of the Applegate Park Zoo, with the temporary closure timed to coincide with a slower visitation period over winter. Updates and progress photos are being shared through the city’s Parks and Community Services channels as work continues, and residents are encouraged to follow those accounts for the latest information.
