City to hike BioPark prices

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - On the surface, it's a pretty picture at the zoo Thursday.

Most of the big cats are napping in the afternoon sun. Giraffes and gorillas are snacking. Seals and sea lions are cruising around underwater.

And there are plenty of families there to watch. There's no shortage of laughter and smiles.

But behind the scenes and on closer view that pretty picture is anything but. On the top of the ape building's roof, the HVAC system is falling apart. Chipped sidewalks and wooden walkways with screw heads sticking out pose tripping hazards.

Albuquerque Mayor Richard J. Berry says that's because the ABQ BioPark is behind on maintenance, $18 million behind. The mayor says the problem will only get worse if there isn't more upkeep.

"We need to do about $1 million more in maintenance [a year] to keep this great facility great," Berry said. "Over the months and over the years it will make a huge huge difference for the BioPark."

To pay for that long-term improvement, the city will significantly raise ticket prices at the zoo, aquarium and botanic gardens starting Sept. 4.

Adult admission will go from $7 to $10. Ticket prices for seniors and children will jump from $3 to $4.50. The New Mexico BioPark Society will also raise the cost of an annual family pass from $79 to $99.

It's the first ticket price hike at the BioPark since 2002. Those prices are relatively in line compared to zoo and aquarium ticket prices at other cities Albuquerque's size.

To provide some relief from the higher prices, the BioPark will offer four half-price weekends throughout the year. The first one will be October 20 and 21.