ZooTampa at Lowry Park has unveiled a transformational plan that aims to add immersive wildlife experiences across multiple habitats and new realms over the next 20 years. The $125 million project will expand opportunities for visitors and drive local and regional economic growth. The transformation will begin with the opening of the Manatee Rescue in January 2026, followed by Stingray Shores and expanding habitats in Africa and Asia. A new South America-themed realm will connect Tampa to its cultural roots and expand public access to the Hillsborough River, while offering entertainment, retail, dining, and nature zones in Lowry Park that will multiply public access. The zoo expects the expansion to enhance the riverfront and boost the direct economic activity of Hillsborough County by 42 percent to $274 million, and bring in nearly $1 million in additional tax dollars for the county annually.
ZooTampa Announces Bold Plans for Future Transformation
ZooTampa at Lowry Park is a famous 65-acre zoological park located in Tampa, Florida, and is home to over 1,300 animals. The park is dedicated to creating unforgettable wildlife experiences while empowering guests with knowledge and inspiration to create a better future for all living things. Recently, ZooTampa has announced its bold plans for future transformation to enhance its role as an essential cultural institution in the region.
The park’s transformation plan is focused on implementing significant improvements aimed at enhancing the zoo experience for visitors and the welfare of the animals in the zoo. The plan consists of two primary phases, with each phase targeted to improve different areas of the park.
In the first phase of the transformation, the park will focus on the renovation of the main entrance, which will provide a more welcoming and accessible gateway for visitors. Additionally, the park will expand its animal habitats and incorporate innovative exhibits to enhance the guests’ experience of wildlife.
The biggest highlight of this phase renovation is the introduction of Florida Wetlands Trail. This new habitat will feature species native to Florida’s wetlands such as the alligator, black bear, and Florida panther. Another notable exhibit is the Manatee Critical Care Center, aimed at rescued and rehabilitated manatees before they are released back into the wild.
The first phase of the transformation will also include the construction of a new children’s play area and a reimagined food and beverage experience. The improved facilities will provide guests with an opportunity to relax and enjoy delicious meals while taking in the surrounding natural beauty.
The second phase will be focused on creating a world-class animal care facility, which will be designed to provide state-of-the-art veterinary care, housing for the zoo’s animal collection, and a comprehensive animal wellness program. The facility will include several features like a diagnostic center, surgery rooms, classrooms for animal care education, and housing for the zoo’s animal ambassadors.
According to ZooTampa’s CEO, Joe Couceiro, the transformation project is a bold step towards enhancing the zoo’s role in education, conservation, and sustainability. “We believe that these investments, and more importantly, the long-term strategic plan that they support, will provide a foundation for our zoo to serve our community and make meaningful contributions towards saving wildlife and wild places,” said Couceiro.
The transformation plan is expected to cost $100 million and will be carried out over the next several years. Construction work is set to begin in 2022, with the first phase expected to be completed in 2023, and the second phase slated for completion in 2025.
In conclusion, ZooTampa’s transformation plan is a significant milestone for the park’s continued growth and development. The ambitious project will provide guests with an enhanced wildlife experience while also creating a better environment for the animals in the zoo. These improvements will help to strengthen the zoo’s role as a vital cultural institution in the region, playing a vital role in promoting education, conservation, and sustainability. With the implementation of the project, ZooTampa is well-positioned to continue providing unforgettable wildlife experiences while inspiring visitors to create a better future for all living things.
