Honolulu Zoo projects revenue increase amid major concession contract changes

The Honolulu City Council held a special budget briefing on March 8, 2025, focusing on projected revenue increases and capital improvement plans for various city facilities, including the Honolulu Zoo and local golf courses.

A notable highlight from the meeting was the anticipated 1.5% revenue increase for the Honolulu Zoo, attributed to a new concession contract for food, beverage, and retail services. This contract will introduce an online ticketing component, expected to generate an additional $106,000 in the first year, with higher revenues projected in subsequent years. The contract is currently in the solicitation phase.

In the golf division, revenues are projected to rise by $1.27 million, or 11.3%, largely due to an aggressive marketing strategy that has already yielded a 7.8% increase, totaling $700,000 for fiscal year 2025. The Muckalena Golf Course recently emerged as the top weekly revenue producer, generating $77,000, while the Ala Wai Golf Course and Westlock Golf Course also showed strong performance.

The briefing also included a request for $14.3 million in capital improvement projects (CIP) aimed at addressing health and safety concerns, improving aging infrastructure, and maintaining zoo accreditation standards. Specific projects include a $6.6 million request for the Blaisdell Center's concert hall improvements, which will enhance health, safety, and accessibility features.

Additional funding requests include $3.18 million for improvements to the Ala Wai Golf Course's irrigation system, allowing for the use of non-potable water sources to conserve drinking water. The Honolulu Zoo is seeking $2.41 million to construct a new animal holding facility and $1.585 million for various zoo improvements, including modifications to the orangutan exhibit and safety enhancements in the Savannah area.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue fostering partnerships and marketing initiatives to enhance revenue and support the next generation of golfers in Hawaii. The council members expressed enthusiasm for the proposed projects and their potential impact on the community.