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Phoenix Zoo seeks $20 million to become world class

Phoenix Zoo officials announced that they are kicking off a $20 million capital campaign aimed at modernizing the zoo and making it world class

Phoenix Zoo officials announced that they are kicking off a $20 million capital campaign aimed at modernizing the zoo and making it world class.Zoo officials want the upgrade to emphasize the organization’s mission of connecting urban dwellers with nature, and overhauling the aging site so that the zoo is recognized worldwide.Latinos and their families will enjoy the new facilities because they will be more exciting, says Bert Castro, zoo president.The zoo ranks high in attendance by Latino families, according to a recent study.About 58 percent of Latino families attending area events in the past year said they visited the zoo, according to a study of Latino consumers by Maricopa Partnership for Arts & Culture.In addition, Latino visitors increased almost 300 percent since 2000, when the zoo started marketing to Latinos in Spanish.The new plan earmarks $3.2 million to create an entry oasis and native-wildlife exhibit that will engage and entertain visitors immediately. The plan will encompass the existing bridge that leads into the zoo.Millions more will go to expand and enhance the orangutan, Komodo dragons and tiger dis­plays, bringing humans and animals closer together while emphasizing safety.“We want people to have very intimate experi­ence,” says Castro, zoo president since February. “We need the type of exhibits that get people excited.”Officials and board members say this was the most comprehensive overhaul program in the history of the zoo. They have already raised $6 million from private donors.For more information on the campaign and how to help, call Jim Gilpin at (602) 286-3881.