Work begins on Lucy's expanded enclosure at Edmonton Valley Zoo; project wraps spring 2027
The 51-year-old elephant's new habitat will triple in size to nearly 70,000 sq. ft., with improved facilities for her care.
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Construction of an expanded enclosure for Lucy, the Edmonton Valley Zoo's 51-year-old Asian elephant, began in late August 2026 and is expected to wrap in spring 2027. The new habitat will be nearly 70,000 square feet—roughly triple the size of her current enclosure—giving Lucy significantly more space to roam and graze.
Lucy will be the zoo's last elephant. The city is directing nearly $36 million from its current capital budget toward facility renewal and enhancement at Valley Zoo, with a portion specifically aimed at Lucy's care as she enters her geriatric years.
The expansion includes a large new indoor facility connecting to Lucy's current enclosure and an adjacent yard that will extend dramatically, incorporating the former Grevy's zebra habitat. The public fence at the perimeter of the yard will be set back further to meet standards allowing Lucy to use the yard unsupervised. Over the past year, Lucy's indoor spaces already underwent upgrades including improved ventilation, humidity and heating systems; an ultraviolet shower; and enhanced monitoring capabilities.
"The current Elephant Amenity and Habitat Expansion will enhance Lucy's well-being by providing her with more space and by installing infrastructure that enhances her care," said Debi Winwood, city spokesperson for Valley Zoo. "This increase will provide a variety of natural areas for Lucy to graze in and explore."
As of this week, Lucy was listed as "off display" by Valley Zoo. The zoo is exploring official accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), which would connect Edmonton's facility to a larger network of resources and increase participation in the Saving Animals From Extinction (SAFE) program. AZA accreditation requires member zoos with pachyderms to comply with specific elephant care standards, including provisions that care professionals not share the same unrestricted space with elephants except in limited, well-defined exceptions.
The facts
How big will Lucy's new enclosure be?
Lucy's expanded enclosure at Edmonton Valley Zoo will be nearly 70,000 square feet, roughly triple the size of her current habitat.
When will the enclosure project be finished?
Construction began in late August 2026 and is expected to wrap in spring 2027.
How old is Lucy?
Lucy is 51 years old.
How much is the city investing in Valley Zoo facility improvements?
Edmonton is directing nearly $36 million from its current capital budget toward facility renewal and enhancement at Valley Zoo, with a portion specifically aimed at Lucy's care.
