San Francisco Zoo officials told the Recreation and Park Commission on Oct. 16 that the zoo will introduce a new silverback gorilla, Cecil, to the public on Oct. 18 and that the zoo this week launched a mobile app intended to improve visitor wayfinding, program schedules and staff data collection.

Cassandra Costello, speaking for the zoo, described outreach efforts including bilingual camps, partnerships with Richmond and Sunset neighborhood organizations, and community events that have brought thousands of visitors back for programming. "This year alone, we've brought over 7,000 people in for community events," Costello said.

Costello said attendance remains below pre‑pandemic levels and that the zoo is pursuing a mix of earned media, grassroots outreach and targeted programming to rebuild visitation and revenue. She said popular programs include bilingual zoo camps, Red Panda Day and family events timed to neighborhood festivals.

Commissioner questions addressed operational matters: Commissioner Hallasey asked about an ongoing audit and whether requested documents had been provided; Costello said the zoo has been "fully compliant" with document requests and that auditors had visited the site.

Members of the public thanked zoo staff for youth programs and community partnerships during general public comment. Costello said the zoo's annual fundraiser had sold out and reiterated that staff continue to expand engagement to recover attendance and support conservation education.