County leaders support a public-private partnership to enhance exhibits, conservation work, and guest experiences
Exciting changes are coming to ZooTampa at Lowry Park, and Hillsborough County is helping lead the way.
Hillsborough County commissioners recently approved negotiations for a public-private partnership to fund ZooTampa's $125 million expansion. The money will help fund the park's proposed new South American realm, along with other expansions and improvements.
Reaching new heights
ZooTampa's President and CEO Joseph Couceiro says the expansion will help the park reach new heights.
"This is the most ambitious project that we have ever taken on," said Couceiro. "In the years ahead, we're looking to completely transform the zoo into a place that is not only world-class but leads the way in what a 21st-century zoo should be."
As part of the plan, Hillsborough County will match dollar-for-dollar up to $75 million, equating to roughly $5 million annually for 15 years. The County's involvement in funding ZooTampa reflects a broader strategy of investing in cultural and environmental assets. As a result, Hillsborough County will play a key role in supporting the advancement of the zoo's long-term development goals. As a nonprofit, it's a relationship ZooTampa says it's grateful for.
"We've had a long-standing relationship with Hillsborough County for a very long time," said Couceiro. "The County has contributed numerous investments over the years to improve the zoo."
Explore South America and Africa
ZooTampa says a big priority of the expansion is ensuring the animals are taken care of in naturalistic habitats that allow them to thrive. It's a goal that ZooTampa's CEO says requires investment over time. A key part of the expansion includes a South American realm, which would feature species native to the region. The expanded habitats are designed to give visitors a meaningful look at wildlife, helping educate visitors about conservation and the challenges many species face in the wild.
"We take great pride in our efforts to protect and preserve wildlife," said Couceiro. "In order to do that, we need to engage our visitors so that they're educated on what the perils of these species are, and how they can help protect and preserve the species."
Along with the South American realm, ZooTampa has approved plans to modernize and expand existing habitats, including its African and Asia realms. The zoo recently completed a project to expand its Florida realm, something ZooTampa's CEO says is an important step in the park's future.
"The Florida realm is important to us because we champion Florida wildlife," said Couceiro. "With the County's support, we're aiming to completely transform all areas of the zoo."
Meet the manatees
As a leader in wildlife conservation, ZooTampa takes pride in its work to help preserve endangered species. A main attraction at the zoo is its Manatee Rescue Exhibit, an immersive area where guests can explore the underwater world of manatees. Visitors get the unique chance to witness the zoo's life-saving efforts up close. Chris Massaro, chief zoological officer at ZooTampa, says the expansion will ensure the park's ability to play a major role in the rehabilitation of Florida manatees while also providing education to guests.
"Knowledge is power," said Massaro. "We're here to provide people with the information to be able to co-exist with these animals and preserve our precious wildlife."
Sparking curiosity
Ultimately, zoo leaders say the goal of the expansion goes beyond building new exhibits. It's about creating experiences that spark curiosity and help visitors, including kids, develop a deeper appreciation of wildlife and conservation. By blending hands-on learning with memorable family moments, ZooTampa hopes guests leave inspired and entertained. A vision that Hillsborough County is throwing support behind.
"We're very grateful for the County for helping us reach our goals," said Couceiro. "Every great city deserves a great zoo, and I think at ZooTampa we have that."