Memphis Zoo leaders reveal $250M comprehensive campus plan with new African exhibit

In a recent Memphis City Council Committee meeting, zoo officials presented an optimistic outlook for the Memphis Zoo, highlighting its significant economic impact and ambitious future plans. Matt Thompson, President and CEO of the Memphis Zoo, along with Chief Development Officer Michelle Correa, shared insights into the zoo's operations and upcoming projects, emphasizing its role as a key attraction for both local residents and visitors from afar.

The Memphis Zoo, located at 2000 Prentice Place, has established itself as a destination zoo, drawing between 900,000 and 1 million visitors annually, with over half of its paid admissions coming from outside the local area. This impressive statistic underscores the zoo's importance not only as a recreational facility but also as a contributor to the local economy, with a recent economic impact study estimating its contribution at approximately $89.4 million.

Thompson noted the zoo's commitment to community engagement, particularly through its Tennessee Tuesday program, which allows over 10% of annual visitors to enter for free. This initiative, along with educational programs for local school children, highlights the zoo's dedication to accessibility and education.

The presentation also outlined the zoo's past successes and future ambitions, including a new comprehensive campus plan aimed at enhancing the visitor experience and expanding animal habitats. The first major project under this plan will focus on creating a new African exhibit featuring elephants, rhinos, and giraffes, marking a significant investment in the zoo's infrastructure. The total cost of the comprehensive plan is projected at $250 million, with $20 million already allocated in the state budget.

Thompson expressed excitement about the collaborative efforts within Overton Park, where the zoo is located, noting improved relationships with other park entities. This cooperation is expected to enhance security and event planning, contributing to a more cohesive visitor experience.

As the Memphis Zoo aims to become the top zoo in the United States, the council meeting served as a platform to communicate its achievements and future goals, reinforcing its vital role in the community and the broader region. The next steps will involve continued fundraising efforts and the execution of the comprehensive campus plan, which promises to elevate the zoo's status and impact in the years to come.