John Ball Zoo is applauding the Kent County Board of Commissioners for approving the Zoo’s new Master Plan this morning. Approval of the plan will allow the Zoo to advance its mission of preserving wildlife and wild places, providing one-of-a-kind educational experiences, and making a positive economic impact on Kent County.  

 

The plan includes several exciting projects, including the expansion of the Zoo’s African area with giraffes, the return of a sea lion habitat, and more.  

 

“On behalf of John Ball Zoo, I want to express our deep gratitude for our longstanding partnership with Kent County and applaud the Board of Commissioners for approving this Master Plan, which will allow us to take our world-class Zoo to the next level,” said Peter D’Arienzo, CEO of John Ball Zoo. “This plan was developed with input from numerous Kent County residents and community organizations, and we thank them for their continued support and engagement with the Zoo. The Master Plan is our roadmap to accommodate the future needs of our thriving and growing community and keep John Ball Zoo a treasured cultural institution for future generations. We also applaud the county staff for their hard work and expertise during this process, and the hundreds of thousands of Kent County residents who continue to support the Zoo." 

 

The Master Plan is a long-term roadmap that outlines John Ball Zoo’s strategic vision throughout the next decade to address the needs of our growing community. Highlights in the 2025 Master Plan include: 

 

  • Expansion of the African area with additional species like giraffes 
  • Reconfiguration of the entry complex featuring new animal habitats, such as flamingos 
  • Construction of one of the largest indoor forest habitats in the U.S. that guests can walk through 
  • Development of a new central plaza 
  • The return of a sea lion habitat with underwater viewing, a rooftop cafe and a world-class animal care facility 
  • Construction of a 400-person event center 
  • Continued development of safe, green-designed parking and transition zone area 
  • Improvements and additions to our guest services and support operations areas 

 

“Kent County shares in John Ball Zoo’s enthusiasm for its future,” said Al Vanderberg, Kent County Administrator/Controller. “Today’s approval of the Zoo master plan affirms our commitment to meaningful improvements that will benefit our entire community. We’re also pleased to have worked with the Zoo and neighbors to preserve 19 acres of greenspace for community gathering and recreation. We remain dedicated to collaborating with the neighbors and the Zoo to bring innovative changes, new exhibits, and enhanced opportunities to life for everyone to enjoy.” 

 

More information about the Master Plan is available on the Zoo’s website.