Sunset Zoo Trust Welcomes Unanimous City Commission Approval of Initial Zoo Expansion Steps

The Sunset Zoo Trust is pleased to announce that the Manhattan City Commission unanimously approved initial agreements to advance a major expansion of the Zoo.

The Trust will fund the proposed Lemurs and Americas expansion primarily through philonthrapic donations.

The City Commission on Aug. 4 approved a $10,000 Construction Manager at Risk agreement with McCownGordon Construction for preconstruction services and a $561,442 professional services agreement with Anderson Knight Architects for exhibit design.

The Commission also unanimously approved a Project Funding Agreement with the Sunset Zoological Park and Wildlife Conservation Trust, establishing the framework for the Trust to fund these initial project costs.

“The Sunset Zoo Trust is extremely grateful for the unanimous support of the Manhattan City Commission,” said the Sunset Zoo Trust President Linda Wassberg.  “This vote represents an important milestone for Sunset Zoo and reflects the strong partnership among the City, the Zoo and the Trust. We are excited to make this investment in the future of Sunset Zoo and in the Manhattan community.”

The Lemur and Americas project is part of Sunset Zoo's long-term vision for creating exceptional habitats and experiences for both animals and visitors.

As the project moves forward, the Trust looks forward to working closely with Sunset Zoo, the City of Manhattan, project partners, donors and the community to help make this vision a reality. The Trust's financial commitment demonstrates its confidence in Sunset Zoo and its importance as a community asset, while the unanimous City Commission vote provides strong public support for moving the project forward.

More details of the project will be announced in the coming months.

The Trust is an organization of people who are passionate about supporting Sunset Zoo with our time and financial donations.