Ribbon cutting ceremony held for Como Harbor at Como Park Zoo

Como Harbor, a $21 million reinvention and improvement of Como Park Zoo’s seals and sea lions exhibit in the heart of the zoo, opened to a ribbon-cutting ceremony Thursday.

The new exhibit will provide an immersive and naturalistic setting that features rocky outcroppings designed to reflect the Pacific Coast. Como Harbor features two saltwater pools with above and below-water viewing, a shaded amphitheater and stage.

The exhibit is designed to provide expert care for the animals with elements such as underwater transfers that allow seals and sea lions to swim in and out of spaces, and multiple locations for animal training sessions to allow zookeepers to provide specialized care for all three species that call Como Harbor home, according to the zoo.

Watch the video above to see the ribbon-cutting ceremony Thursday morning in St. Paul.