As of June 26, 2024, voters approved Bond Measure 26-244 on May 21, 2024. The 2024 Bond measure would fund new projects to protect animal health and well-being, provide conservation education, and conserve water and energy at the zoo. It would initiate a second phase of projects in parts of the campus not improved through the 2008 bond. These include some of the zoo’s oldest animal areas, educational exhibits, visitor facilities and infrastructure. The bond will be guided by a new zoo master plan currently under development. The Metro Council approved guiding concepts for the Oregon Zoo Campus Plan in October 2023, with the final plan expected to be approved by this summer. The plan will lay out a vision for zoo development over the next 20 years, though the new bond projects are expected to be completed in the next 10 to 15 years. Proposed projects, identified in an investment framework adopted by the Metro Council on Feb. 1, 2024, include the following: 1. Updating aging exhibits with more natural, modern habitats, including but not limited to penguins, sea otters and giraffes.
2. Improving facilities to enhance educational opportunities for children and other zoo visitors to learn about animals and habitat conservation.
3. Conserving water and energy in zoo operations and updated infrastructure.
4. Improving facilities supporting the zoo’s conservation work protecting and restoring threatened and endangered species in the Northwest and beyond.
5. Increasing accessibility for visitors of all abilities, including improved paths and exhibits.
6. Improving protection from heat and extreme weather for animals and visitors.
7. Improving facilities to prepare for animal care in a natural disaster or emergency.
A detailed bond implementation plan will be presented to the Metro Council within four months of the election.
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