Officials at Baton Rouge Zoo in Louisiana, US, are considering a US$110m (€99.5m, £71.5m) upgrade to the visitor attraction, which could see it move to a new facility.
The zoo has hired a firm to examine ways the zoo could be improved with or without a move, with the consultants making several recommendations. Following the consultant’s timeline, a decision on relocation or renovation will be made in six to nine months time.
The plans would include a more interactive zoo experience designed to appeal to attendees of all ages. "The Vision for the New Baton Rouge Zoo" includes zip lines, adventure courses and a sky lift to provide a bird's eye view of the animals. Also included in the plans are splash pads, water rides, a carousel, retail and dining, as well as improved animal experiences across the zoo.
According to a feasibility study by Philadelphia-based Schultz & Williams, the investment could raise average year-on-year attendance from around 250,000 visitors up to 375,000, also contributing US$24m (€21.7m, £15.m) annually to the local economy. The zoo will first need to privately raise US$25m (€22.6m, £16.2m) to kickstart the project.
