The nonprofit, Sacramento Zoological Society, submitted a formal request to the city of Sacramento to expand the zoo’s footprint in its Land Park location, where it has been operating since 1927. If approved, the plans will enlarge the Sacramento Zoo with one of the most significant expansions in more than 50 years.
The proposal outlines the addition of two parcels of land which would increase the zoo’s space by 40%, from its current 14.3 acres to 20.1 acres. The two plots are a 1.4-acre location on the zoo’s northern boundary and a 4.4-acre site across Land Park Drive. The latter was an area previously used for pony rides but currently it is vacant.
The new plan submission comes after zoo leaders stepped away from a potential relocation to a 65-acre modern zoo complex in Elk Grove. This plan failed earlier this year due to rising construction costs and concerns that continued scaling back of the development would leave the zoo with fewer animal species than it currently houses.
Under the submitted proposal, the zoo will have more space to meet the needs of its over 300 animals. It will help the Sacramento Zoological Society improve habitats and sustain its mission of conservation, education, and community engagement. The new space will allow the zoo to provide the experiences its 500,000 annual guests expect and deserve.
Timelines and specific development plans have not been finalized. There is also no cost estimate or funding plans as the submission awaits its approval. However, the request is emphasized as a major first step towards building the future zoo.
Photo by Sean P. Twomey from Pexels
