Utica Zoo in Utica, New York, has unveiled its multi-million dollar masterplan, designed to transform the 102-year-old institution into one of the state’s premier visitor attractions.

Included in the Dream BIG masterplan, which will in total cost somewhere between US$63.2m (€56.5m, £50m) and US$75.8m (€67.8m, £60m), is an Asian temple and a series of African, Adirondack and rain forest-themed habitats, which will include new additions such as giraffes, black bears, otters, tigers and orangutans.

Dream BIG is the zoo’s first comprehensive master plan since 1990, with EML Environments leading its development.

The masterplan could potentially add another 50 acres to its existing 30, with the plan broken down into 3, 5, 10 and 20 year goals. Funding will primarily raised through public and corporate sponsors, donated over the 20-year period.



Under the plan, the zoo’s existing red panda, and California sea lion exhibits will be renovated or completely replaced with state-of-the-art additions. The sea lion exhibit specifically will be expanded to create a multi-species marine mammal exhibit with state-of-the-art underwater viewing, mini-amphitheater seating, larger pools & pup dens, and a special area for animal encounters with visitors.

“Signature animals like giraffe and otter are extremely exciting, but we are also looking forward to other important upgrades like new parking lots, a bus loop, new layout for visitor pathways, and additional restrooms and visitor services,” said Utica Zoo executive director, Andria Heath.

“We have a wonderful history of connecting children and families with nature, and it is our job to ensure that future generations have the same opportunity to create life-long memories.”