FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WFFT) — The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo announced that they will open to the general public will be on Saturday, July 4.

Zoo hours for July will be from noon to 7 p.m. daily.

“Zoo Members have enjoyed the past few weeks and starting Saturday, July 4, we will open for the general public,” said Executive Director Jim Anderson. “The Zoo looks beautiful, our staff, volunteers and Zoo animals can’t wait for the community to come back to the Zoo.”

Anderson said the zoo has developed a plan in accordance with Governor Eric Holcomb's Back on Track Indiana plan to reopen its gates, helping guests enjoy the zoo and have a safe visit.

The zoo’s plan includes asking all guests to stay at home if you or anyone in your party is feeling sick, follow 6-foot social distancing guidelines, and suggest wearing face coverings during Zoo visit.

Visitors who are 65 years of age or older, or individuals who are medically vulnerable to COVID-19 are asked by zoo officials to take measures to be safe and not subject themselves to the risks this virus could pose.

“We are asking all guests visiting the Zoo to help us,” said Director of Operations Dan Sheehan. “We are suggesting that guests wear face coverings, stay 6 feet from the guests in front of you, wash your hands often, use the hand sanitizer placed throughout the zoo, and be patient with one another as you may find longer lines throughout the zoo at the rides, food areas, giraffe feeding or viewing windows.”

Sheehan said the pandemic presented FWCZ with unprecedented financial challenges and they project a $5 million revenue loss this summer.

Officials said Fort Wayne Zoo Members will have exclusive daily access to the Zoo from July 4-31 between the hours of 9-11:30 a.m. with a free timed ticket, which is available here.

Members can also visit from noon to 7 p.m. with no timed ticket necessary.