Regional Focus
COMPILED BY KENZIE DYE
Lions are Coming to Oglebay Good Zoo in 2026
Oglebay Good Zoo is preparing to unleash an unforgettable adventure in 2026 with the arrival of lions , taking the visitor experience to a whole new level . With the debut of a cutting-edge lion habitat and immersive experiences , guests can hear the roar of these majestic creatures right in their backyard .
In a groundbreaking move , Oglebay Good Zoo will become the first Association of Zoos and Aquariums ( AZA ) -accredited zoo in the country to offer guests the chance to get up close and personal with lions in a breathtaking natural environment . The new lion habitat and management facility will be one of the largest of its kind in the eastern U . S . and the only one in West Virginia .
The excitement doesn ’ t stop with the lion habitat . Guests can elevate their experience with the three exclusive cottages built on-site , which will offer guests a front-row seat to the action . Guests staying at the Base Camp Villas will be able to embark on a true safari tour , enjoy daily lion encounters , explore the zoo on night tours and indulge in delicious dining options and comfortable in-room amenities .
Oglebay Good Zoo is committed to more than just offering an incredible experience — it ’ s also dedicated to lion conservation . African lions are a vulnerable species , with their population declining by more than 43 % in the last 30 years . Portions of the proceeds from the lion exhibit will benefit lion conservation in Africa , focusing on efforts to protect and grow wild lion populations .
Through its partnership with the AZA ’ s African Lion SAFE program , Oglebay Good Zoo will ensure these magnificent animals have a future in the wild . The zoo will also educate guests on the importance of preserving lions and their habitats for generations to come .
“ We are deeply grateful to Flip West and family , the Colcom Foundation , the Helen J . Prince Foundation and other generous supporters for making this extraordinary project possible ,” says Bob Peckenpaugh , Wheeling Park Commission president and CEO .
ZMM Architects and Engineers Expands Firm Leadership , Announces New Senior Leadership Team , Promotions
ZMM Architects and Engineers is pleased to announce an important organizational shift to a senior leadership model . This move marks a significant evolution in the firm ’ s leadership structure , transitioning from a traditional board of directors to an expanded senior leadership team focused on driving strategic growth .
“ We are proud of the strong leadership we have built at ZMM . These
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WEST VIRGINIA EXECUTIVE