Detroit Zoo outlines 7‑acre Discovery Trails, highlights county partnership and $54 million revenue

Haley Murphy, executive director of the Detroit Zoological Society, told the Oakland County Board of Commissioners that the zoo drew about 1.2 million visitors in 2024, generated roughly $54 million in revenue and is proceeding with Discovery Trails, a 7‑acre, accessibility‑focused experience scheduled to open in 2026.

Murphy said the zoo now raises about 51% of its revenue from earned sources such as admissions and events, with public support accounting for about 34% of revenue; Oakland County’s millage contributed about 13% of that public support. “At the Detroit Zoological Society, our mission is simple but powerful, to create meaningful connections between people, animals, and the natural world so all can thrive,” Murphy said.

The strategic plan Murphy presented is the organization’s first comprehensive roadmap since 2010. She told commissioners the zoo’s 2024 year included investments in capital and operations, a rebound in attendance after the pandemic and significant education and community programs that reach students and vulnerable populations across the Tri‑County region.

Murphy described a range of education and workforce initiatives: a four‑year paid Conservation Student Internship that enrolls cohorts of ninth through 12th graders, partnerships with local high schools and colleges, and outreach programs for people experiencing homelessness and survivors of human trafficking. The zoo reported engaging more than 23,000 students, teachers and families through its education programs in 2024.

Murphy also described sustainability efforts, including a 0‑waste program for select events, a net‑zero water initiative and a community recycling event that recycled more than 85 tons. She credited county staff and the Oakland County Water Resources Commission for helping the zoo secure federal funding and navigate water‑sustainability projects on its nearly 100‑year‑old site.

Murphy briefed commissioners on two infrastructure efforts supported by the county: an $18 million, seven‑acre infrastructure rehabilitation that addresses aging grounds and piping, and emergency repairs after a sinkhole opened along 10 Mile Road outside the zoo. Murphy said a staff member fell into the sinkhole up to his waist; the road closure has allowed the zoo and county to complete repairs.

Discovery Trails is described as an inclusive, experiential area with an accessible canopy walkway, interactive animal experiences and new habitats for prairie dogs, bush dogs, alpacas, burrowing owls and aquatic touch‑tank species such as bamboo sharks and stingrays. Murphy said the project is designed so children with differing mobility needs can use the same pathways as their peers. Construction is under way with a target opening in 2026.

Commissioners thanked Murphy for the update and asked about community partnerships and contact information for staff. Chair Woodward and Commissioner Brendan Johnson both praised the zoo’s programming and the local economic impact Murphy cited.

The Detroit Zoological Society asked the public to follow project updates at dzu.org/discoverytrails and to note that parts of 10 Mile Road remain closed while county‑supported repairs continue.