News release
WATERTOWN, NY — GYMO has completed the Zoo New York master plan
which will serve as the guiding document for decision making for the next 100 years. The plan aligns with Zoo New York’s mission, vision, values, and strategic initiatives for the future.
The plan kickoff started in March 2021. GYMO team members worked collaboratively with Executive Director, Larry Sorel, to initiate the first steps in bringing new zoo ideas to life. GYMO aimed to utilize, highlight, and preserve the existing resources while strategically building out plans for future development
and economic strength.
“Thompson Park is the most unique resource to our area and the zoo is a large component of that. We aim to uplift the zoo by using smart planning principals.” says Mark Crandall, site development project manager.
Input from community members and area stakeholders was incorporated. The plan ensures that future developments are both environmentally sustainable and responsive to public outdoor recreational and educational needs. Main focuses of the plan involve re-identifying and enhancing the entrance and exit of the zoo to establish a natural flow of visitors throughout the property. Other updates include a future outdoor adventure park with ziplines and climbing walls, parking enhancements, an aquarium, and a modern animal stable. Also, new animal exhibits will be added that correspond to the New York region in which they are commonly found. This will provide zoo visitors the opportunity to tour the unique habitats that exist throughout New York State.
The plan aligns with providing the highest quality guest experience, along with the highest level of animal care. Additionally, it effectively portrays where these projects could be developed if funding or a strategic partnership were to become available for implementation. Ultimately, the plan was created to share a vision
in supporting our local community. The completed plan can be found in physical form at Zoo New York and a clickable link will be added to the Zoo New York website. You can find out more by going to zoonewyork.org.
GYMO is an architectural, engineering, land surveying, and construction management firm based in Watertown, New York. The talented and dedicated team has a shared commitment to serving local communities through unparalleled service, project delivery, and design excellence.