The Chicago Zoological Society, which operates Brookfield Zoo, is in the midst of developing a new five-year strategic plan as the institution moves ever closer to the centennial of the zoo’s opening in 2034.
Some big improvements – like the construction of a new indoor/outdoor habitat for primates outside of Tropic World and an overhaul of the Seven Seas dolphin habitat — are already in the pipeline.
On July 25 at 5:30 p.m., zoo officials will provide an opportunity for the public to learn about the planning process and provide input at a town hall at Riverside-Brookfield High School, 160 Ridgewood Road in Riverside.
Jennifer Baader, senior vice president of government affairs at Brookfield Zoo, and Mary Ann Cronin, master planning consultant at Brookfield Zoo, will provide a short presentation about the master planning process, which will include updates on new exhibits that will be coming in the next two years.
Baader said the event will also feature an “open-mic style session for residents to share their thoughts on the future of Brookfield Zoo, including any recommendations for new animal exhibits, conservation projects and partnerships, local community engagement, and improvements to the guest experience.”
Anyone unable to attend in person but who would like to provide input on the master plan can email those comments to PlanYourZoo@CZS.org.
