The Hutchinson City Council on Jan. 7 approved a $23,325 proposal from Tesserae (formerly GMLV) to update the Hutchinson Zoo master plan and complete a feasibility study for proposed enhancements. Justin Combs, director of parks and facilities, presented three main focus areas: train-track exhibits to boost Prairie Thunder Railroad ridership, a multi-species native-Kansas exhibit that could support an overnight lodging experience, and activation of the zoo pond.

Combs said the three proposed enhancements could provide revenue opportunities without instituting an entry fee, and he emphasized aligning any phasing and timeline with the city’s capital improvement plan. He described the overnight option by showing examples of small cabins and a lodge used elsewhere and said the study will examine occupancy, nightly rates, construction costs and return on investment. "I don't know that an entry fee is the right way," Combs said, arguing that revenue can be generated through other guest experiences.

Councilmembers supported further study and noted the idea’s potential to attract visitors year-round, support events such as the county fair and provide additional lodging capacity during busy periods. The study will also assess pond and train improvements and produce updated renderings and a phasing plan targeted for completion in May or June 2025.

The council voted to approve the Tesserae proposal, with funds coming from the park reserve. Next steps will include a detailed financial analysis and design deliverables to feed into future CIP requests.