ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – Millions of dollars in improvements are under construction at the BioPark. Soon, visitors can expect a new event space at the botanic garden, a new train at the heritage farm, and a renovated alligator snapping turtle habitat, funded by gross receipt taxes (GRT). “GRT funds are allowing us to build best-in-class habitats that far exceed typical zoo animal care standards,” Lynn Tupa, BioPark Zoo manager, said in a press release. “Guests can already see that animals in Asia have increased their natural behaviors and fully engage with their habitats, which elevates their physical and mental wellbeing. We will continue to build and renovate habitats to provide this same extraordinary level of choice and control for more animals in our care.” Valles Caldera offering summer outdoor programs In progress projects include a $13 million renovation to Heritage Farm, which shows traditional farming methods. The BioPark announced plans to upgrade in 2023, and now say that the site could be complete in fall of 2024, including a new train at the site. A $1.3 million event pavilion at the Botanic Garden is also on the way. The city says the shaded space will allow for concerts and private parties and is expected to open this summer. At the zoo, the alligator snapping turtles are getting a larger pool. Zoo visitors will also get a more immersive viewing experience as the alligator snapping turtle space is reworked at an estimated cost of $900,000. A $1.1 million improvement to the Mexican gray wolf habitat won't necessarily give visitors a better view of the animals, but it will give the wolves some space for privacy. A so-called "refuge" for the wolves is being built behind the scenes, the city says. The privacy space will let wolves breed, raise pups, and establish bonds, the city adds. Petroglyphs National Monument opening new trail system on May 3 A handful of other projects are on the agenda, but they will likely take longer to complete. Ultimately, the zoo plans on completely transforming the catwalk exhibit, and an $11 million expansion of the Australia exhibit is on the agenda as well. Overall, the BioPark has put more than $78 million towards projects, repairs, and renovations, according to their annual GRT report.