Master Plan - Phase 2

As part of its Master Plan, Friends of High Park Zoo is redesigning and redeveloping the Zoo. With the completion of the Phase 1 Llama Building replacement, Phase 2 , involves the renovation of the recreation trail which runs through the Zoo. It is also known as Deer Pen Road This work entails resurfacing, the installation of a much-needed storm drainage system using environmentally-sensitive plant and stone bioswales to improve drainage of water on the site, naturalization of the trail with planting of new trees and native plant species, as well as accessibility and safety improvements to the trail.

We are pleased to note that the Phase 2 has started with a re-designed plan. The City of Toronto has already completed the initial drainage improvements and has strarted work on Deer Pen Road Promenade improvements.

High Park Zoo will be closed as of October 13, 2026 as construction begins on Phase 2. We expect that that the Zoo will reopen in early 2027 with further partial closures over fall/winter of 2027 and 2028 to execute the full complement of Phase 2 improvements to Deep Pen road and public spaces in the Zoo.