Palm Desert gives the Living Desert $1 million donation at welcome center opening

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens cut the ribbon today on a new welcome center that includes a plaza, gift shop, and endowment garden. The project, called Crossroads of Conservation, cost an apparent $30 million.

During the day’s ceremony, the City of Palm Desert announced a $1 million donation in honor of the opening of the welcome center.

The Patti and Jack Grundhofer Plaza features new walkways and guest service amenities, like ticket kiosks. It’s the first in a three-phase construction project, funded by The Living Desert’s Pride of the Desert capital campaign.

The new 3,200 sq. ft. Suzan and Bill Appel Gift Shop is a spot for guests to purchase souvenirs and merchandise during their visit to the zoo. The Living Legacy Endowment Garden is home to 50-foot fever trees that we’re told will be maintained through The Living Desert’s endowment fund.

Representatives from The Living Desert say the Crossroads of Conservation expansion will provide more opportunities for guest interaction and education about the world’s desert wildlife. They say future plans include animal habitats for lions, rhinoceros, and hyenas, and a new indoor event space.

You can see these new additions at The Living Desert daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit their website for more information.