San Francisco Zoo projects revenue rise, new exhibits and a modest deficit to be covered from reserves

Jeff Pace, representing the San Francisco Zoo, briefed the commission on expectations for the coming fiscal year including capital exhibits, attendance projections and a modest anticipated operating shortfall.

The zoo projects about 700,000 visitors in the next year and revenues of approximately $27.6 million, up from roughly $25.5 million the prior year. On the expense side, staff estimated about $28.2 million driven largely by animal care, buildings and grounds; the zoo anticipates using reserves to cover an expected deficit of roughly $600,000.

Major projects discussed include relocation and enhancements for lions, a jaguar expansion, and negotiations to bring pandas to the zoo. Pace said the zoo is still negotiating with authorities in China but that more than $1 million in capital for pandas is already committed. The zoo is also completing the long‑running Madagascar exhibit and implementing programming called “Under the Canopy” near the park’s central area.

Pace said the zoo has returned to pre‑COVID staffing levels and cited a contractual wage increase of about 4% for Teamsters 856 employees; minimum wage at the zoo has increased to $19.18. He described a mix of admissions, contributions and other revenues as the primary funding sources.

Commissioners asked about the timing and ongoing funding for potential panda exhibits; Pace said habitat renovation would likely use an existing space and the capital build‑out may be achievable in under a year and at a cost the zoo characterized as “not tens of millions.” Cassandra Costello will join the organization as chief operating officer in August; the current CEO Tanya Peterson is retiring August 1 and the board has put in place interim leadership.

Pace said the zoo plans multiple targeted events and programming to help boost attendance and noted micro‑events such as music and wine evenings, Oktoberfest and a summer sunset series to draw visitors.