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Detroit Zoological Society briefs Macomb commissioners on expansion, infrastructure and community programs
Summary
Dr. Haley Murphy, CEO of the Detroit Zoological Society, told Macomb County commissioners the zoo drew about 1.2 million visitors in 2024, reported $54 million in revenue, and is pursuing a 7-acre Discovery Trails expansion with an expected 2026 opening; the board voted 13-0 to receive the update.
The Detroit Zoological Society told Macomb County commissioners on March 13 that the zoo is recovering visitor numbers after the pandemic, is managing urgent infrastructure repairs and is pursuing a seven‑acre educational expansion called Discovery Trails slated to open in 2026 “if construction proceeds as planned.” Commissioners voted 13-0 to receive the presentation.
Dr. Haley Murphy, CEO and executive director of the Detroit Zoological Society, said the zoo had “a little over 1,200,000 visitors” in 2024 and generated about $54 million in revenue. She said earned revenue contributed roughly 51% of operating income, public support about 34%, philanthropy 13% and other income 2%. Net operating expenses were reported as about $52.9 million in 2024.
Murphy summarized animal milestones and programs: the zoo reported its first-ever gorilla birth in its 97-year history, twin red panda cubs, an additional sea otter…
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