After six months of planning and construction, ZooMontana’s new, $70,000, themed playground -- all nestled in the shade -- is ready for some children.

The structure was paid in part by community members during the Zoo’s last Wild Affair fundraiser, according to Jeff Ewelt, Executive Director of ZooMontana. Some $20,000 in pledges was raised, enough for the initial down payment.

There are some people interested in naming the playground for the remaining $50,000 price tag, according to a news release from Ewelt. To help cover any additional costs, the Zoo is currently selling personalized bricks for a new pathway set to be installed in 2016.

The structure offers numerous slides, a ropes course, several educational components and a Junior Zookeeper Observation Post.

Ewelt said he has long-dreamed of this moment.

“Of course kids love the zoo, but they also want to blow off some steam, and this playground will allow them to do that in an extremely safe setting," Ewelt said. “This is a dream come true for us and we promise, the kids won’t be disappointed. And, the best part is, it’s a community effort that made it happen. How can you not love that?”

The playground will open to the public on Thursday, Oct. 8 at 10 a.m. For more information on the Pathway to Play brick campaign, click here. The Zoo is located at 2100 S. Shiloh Rd. in Billings,

 

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