Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Parks And Recreation topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
City approves Palm Beach Zoo’s Jaguar Trails renovation
Summary
The commission granted conceptual approval for the Palm Beach Zoo’s Jaguar Trails renovation, an elevated pathway and expanded habitat the zoo expects to construct starting in April and to open in November.
The West Palm Beach City Commission unanimously approved a request from the Palm Beach Zoo to construct the Jaguar Trails habitat renovation, which the Zoological Society said would expand the jaguar enclosure with elevated pathways and new guest viewing opportunities.
Stacy Cohen of the Zoological Society presented the project, saying the renovation will expand jaguar space by more than 50%, create elevated 12‑foot pathways for the cats and add guest experiences such as a viewing area called the Caracol. "The cats are gonna be able to climb four times the height that they can reach now, which is going to greatly enhance their well‑being," Cohen said. Zoo presenters said construction will begin in mid‑April, with completion targeted for mid‑September and a public opening in November.
City staff and the city attorney noted that the zoo lease requires city approval for improvements exceeding $5,000 and that the plans must comply with permitting standards from the USDA and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The commission raised questions about animal welfare during construction and was told the zoo will house the jaguars in expanded back‑of‑house areas and monitor stress indicators during work.
The motion to approve the conceptual design and location carried unanimously; staff said the site will be closed to the public during construction and that the zoo will adhere to permitting standards and inspections required by regulatory agencies.
