TAMPA, Fla. — The Hillsborough County Commission approved a motion to move forward with finalizing a contract that would provide ZooTampa at Lowry Park with $75 million in Community Investment Tax funds for capital improvements, according to a statement from the zoo.
ZooTampa said the funding would support projects related to animal care, public education, economic growth and visitor experiences.
The money has not been described by ZooTampa as finally awarded or paid. The zoo said the commission approved a motion to proceed with finalizing the contract.
ZooTampa said the public funding would be combined with private fundraising and zoo operational money as part of a $150 million master plan over the next 15 years.
What ZooTampa plans to build
ZooTampa said the plan includes modernizing its Asia area with expanded naturalistic, multi-species habitats for animals including orangutans and tigers.
The zoo said its Australia area would be expanded to include a new family ride.
In Africa, ZooTampa said it plans to expand multi-species habitats and create new viewing areas for African elephants.
The zoo also said the plan calls for expanding across the street near the Hillsborough River with a South America area. ZooTampa said that area would include habitats for South American species, dining and event venues, and additional public access points to Lowry Park and the riverfront.
ZooTampa cites conservation, attendance
Joe Couceiro, ZooTampa’s CEO and president, said the county money would come at an important time for the zoo.
ZooTampa said the projects would support endangered and threatened species, expand educational opportunities and strengthen the zoo’s role as a cultural and economic anchor.
The zoo also described itself as Florida’s most-attended cultural institution.
ZooTampa said Community Redevelopment Area dollars are not available in its area and said the county money, combined with the zoo’s match, would help support its long-term plans.
ZooTampa thanked Commissioner Joshua Wostal, other commissioners who supported the motion and county staff.
No timeline for a final contract vote was included in the zoo’s statement.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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