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W hat will Brookfield Zoo Chicago look like in

W10, 15, or 30 years? What new animals, habitats,
and amenities can you look forward to? As global wildlife
populations and natural habitats continue to shrink, how will
the Zoo foster a deeper connection between guests and wildlife
and a broader understanding of the importance of conservation?
These and other questions are addressed in the recently
unveiled Next Century Plan, which will guide the long-term
trajectory of the Zoo through our centennial celebration in 2034,
with continued improvements extending over the next 30 years.
Years in the making, it represents an exciting and innovative
new direction for Brookfield Zoo Chicago and reaffirms our
status as a leader in global wildlife conservation.
Creating the Plan was a collaborative effort involving our
team of professional partners*, the Zoo’s Board of Trustees, staff,
and community stakeholders. Careful attention to animals’ social,
psychological, behavioral, and biological needs took precedence
in every aspect of planning and design.
“Our Next Century Plan reflects our core commitment as
a zoo to save species and ecosystems,” said Dr. Michael Adkesson,
the Zoo’s president & CEO. “The Plan boldly envisions the
redevelopment and expansion of the Zoo’s physical campus to
bolster our excellence in animal care and wellness. But our impact
will also extend beyond our gates to reach local communities
and global partners to provide a connection for people to develop
empathy for wildlife and nature that drives positive action.”
The Next Century Plan is being implemented in four phases.
The first phase, which is well underway, has already begun to
transform the Zoo. The Zoo’s $400 million investment will cover
capital improvement costs during the first and second phases—
including the development of 100 acres and existing deferred
maintenance. Another $100 million will bolster an endowment
and support maintenance. The substantial investments are
generating new jobs and community development, and will
attract more tourists to Brookfield and the Chicago area.

* Booth Hansen, Architecture and Planning
Jones & Jones, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, and Planning
Terra Engineering, Civil
V3 Engineering, Utilities
Tilghman Group, Transportation Planning

ConsultEcon Inc.
IQ Magic, Interpretive Planning
Mary Ann Cronin, Master Planning Coordinator

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