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INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis Zoo will be re-opening Friday, June 19, and they will have plenty of new safety guidelines.

Judy Palermo with the Indy Zoo says all guests will have to buy a “timed ticket” from their website. It’s their way of limiting the number of people in the zoo at one time.

“So if you have a timed ticket for 9:30 in the morning, we really need to make sure you are coming, and out of your car at 9:30 to enter,” Palermo said. “So that way, the entry plaza does not get backed up and we can get everyone into the zoo safely.”

You’re also being asked to take your temperature before coming to the zoo. Anyone with a temperature above 100.4 degrees will not be allowed to enter.

Palermo says all staff members will be wearing a mask at all times, and guests are strongly encouraged to wear a mask as well.

You’ll also notice signs reminding you about staying six feet apart, and more hand sanitizing stations around the zoo. They’ll also be cleaning high-traffic areas multiple times a day. You’re encouraged to bring your own water bottle, because the drinking fountains will be closed. If you plan on buying anything, the zoo will be cashless and only accept debit and

credit cards.

During the last three months of the coronavirus pandemic, zookeepers have been working in teams to take care of the animals while the zoo remained closed.

“The animals are doing great,” Palermo said. “They’re happy and healthy, and ready to welcome families and kids back.”

 

LISTEN TO THE FULL INTERVIEW WITH JUDY PALERMO: