The City Council approved plans for the City-owned entity to move forward on a parking lot expansion and an addition that would bring a concession stand to the zoo. Superintendent Jay Tetzloff says they are much needed improvements.

 

 

According to Tetzloff, the gift shop will have the addition for the concession stand. He indicates patrons of the zoo and those that are at the park adjacent to the zoo can take advantage of.

 

 

Tetzloff adds the parking lot they have will remain but there will be a new lot added near the main road near the park. He points out the road in front of the zoo can be a safety hazard when traffic is high.

 

 

Within the last few years the zoo has introduced flamingos to their collection but Tetzloff calls these two projects the highest priorities on their master plan in terms of their infrastructure. The master plan for the zoo was put in place almost five years ago. 

 

 

No private money will go into the project. Tetzloff says infrastructure improvements are going to be funded by the city and animal additions and animal projects would be funded privately. Tetzloff indicates the zoo will take out a loan to pay for the concession stand, and they believe they can quickly pay that off with the revenue they will generate. 

 

Construction for the concession stand will likely start in the spring with a target of the fall for an opening and the parking lot hopes to be finished by the winter of next year.