Governor Hochul Marks Groundbreaking for $135 Million Transformational Project at Monroe County’s Seneca Park Zoo in Rochester
$42.5 Million in NYS Support Will Bolster Efforts To Upgrade the Visitor Experience at Area’s Second biggest Tourist Attraction
More Than 350,000 People Visit the Renowned Zoo Each Year
NYS Investment Complements the Finger Lakes Region’s Comprehensive Strategy to Revitalize Communities, Grow the Economy and Support Tourism
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the groundbreaking for a $135 million transformational project at the Seneca Park Zoo in Monroe County — the region’s second biggest tourist attraction. The Tropics Complex Exhibit building will include the Tropical Forest, Tropical Island Habitats, Pacific Reef Habitats, education space, event space, administrative offices, and the new zoo gift shop. The new building will additionally house 60,000 gallons of aquatic habitats including, a 30,000-gallon Amazon River tank, a komodo dragon pool, a madagascar cichlid tank, a coral reef tank, and a shark touch tank. anticipated species include orangutan, lemur siamang, coral cat shark, amazon fish & rays, jellyfish and giant pacific octopus among other tropical species. Construction is expected to be completed in late 2029.
“For more than 130 years, the Seneca Park Zoo has been an important part of the region’s history, educating and entertaining hundreds of thousands of visitors and residents alike,” Governor Hochul said. “Through this public-privately funded transformative project, we will ensure that tradition continues, bolstering the zoo’s mission through venue modernization and expanded programming that will continue to enhance the overall guest experience.”
The groundbreaking also comes as Monroe County celebrates the 100th anniversary of the county parks system.
Monroe County Executive Adam J. Bello said, “Today’s groundbreaking of the Tropics Exhibit marks a monumental leap forward for the Seneca Park Zoo, cementing its status as a world-class attraction and a cornerstone of Monroe County, and advancing conservation efforts for generations to come. This transformative milestone is made possible through Governor Hochul’s significant investment and unwavering partnership in uplifting the quality of life for Monroe County families.”
Governor Hochul first announced $42.5 million in state support for the project in March of 2022. In addition to state support, Monroe County is investing a total of $67.6 million in the project, the New York State Historic Preservation Office has committed $1.9 million and the Seneca Park Zoo Society has committed to raising an additional $23 million to support the completion of this capital improvement project.
Seneca Park Zoo Society President and CEO Pamela Reed Sanchez said, “This is the most transformative project in the Zoo’s history, creating an immersive experience that will change how people see zoos. The Tropics Complex will amplify our ability to reach every person in our community to give them nature-based days of joy and wonder, while inspiring them to help make our region greener and more sustainable. This is an investment in growth, strengthening not just Seneca Park Zoo, but our entire region.”
Originally established in 1894, Monroe County’s Seneca Park Zoo, located in the City of Rochester, is currently home to over 90 species including mammals, reptiles, birds, amphibians, fish and arachnids. Seneca Park Zoo hosts many events throughout the year and partners with many communities in the region to educate the public about animal and resource conservation and environmental awareness. More than 350,000 people visit the zoo each year. The zoo additionally supports over 14,000 member households and hosts thousands of participants each year through school programs, camps and other community events.
Governor Hochul is committed to supporting projects that bolster tourism. Last year, New York State welcomed a record-high 321 million visitors, who generated more than $97 billion in direct spending and $152 billion in total economic impact. Tourism supports one out of every nine jobs across the state.
Empire State Development CEO, President and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Governor Hochul recognizes the importance of the tourism economy, which supports jobs and regional growth. The upgrades at Rochester’s Seneca Park Zoo — including the new Tropics Complex Exhibit - will provide a more engaging and welcoming experience for visitors, while further advancing the zoo’s focused mission to inspire the community through local and global animal conservation efforts.”
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