PILLAR: Vibrant
AGENDA DATE: December 10, 2025
COUNCIL DISTRICT(S): 4
DEPARTMENT: Park & Recreation Department
PRIORITY: N/A
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SUBJECT
Title
Authorize a development agreement with the Dallas Zoo for the purpose of design and construction of the 2024 Bond Program Dallas Zoo Partnership Project - Financing: This action has no cost consideration to the City (see Fiscal Information)
Body
BACKGROUND
This item will authorize a development agreement with the Dallas Zoo for the development, design, and construction of the Safari Habitat Trail and other improvements. The project is part of the 2024 Dallas City Bond approved on May 4, 2024. The bond project allocates $30 million to the zoo for this initiative. This funding will help build a new safari-like experience, reactivate 15 acres of parkland, and expand the viewing experience of the zoo. City funding will leverage $70 million from private sources for a $100 million project that will drive revenue and attendance at a signature City asset.
The agreement will be subject to the following terms:
1. City will own all improvements constructed or affixed at the Dallas Zoo.
2. The project will be co-managed by the City and the Zoo through a contract assignment.
3. The Dallas Zoo, at its sole cost and expense, shall design and construct the Safari Habitat Trail. City shall have the right to review and approved all plans and work for its purpose.
4. The Dallas Zoo shall be responsible for all permits and other approvals required for the construction of the project.
5. Upon the completion of each phase of the project, Dallas Zoo shall be responsible for operation and maintenance of the project for the benefit of the public.
6. Dallas Zoo will be able to participate in construction award process but cannot score proposals.
7. Bond disbursements will occur in three annual installments of approximately $10,000,000.00 each, beginning in November 2025, and continuing by November 30th of each year through 2027.
8. Each disbursement from the City Bond will be matched on at least a 1:1 basis by the Zoo, reaching a 2:1 match prior to completion of the Zoo Capital Projects.
PRIOR ACTION/REVIEW (COUNCIL, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS)
On November 6, 2025, the Park and Recreation Board approved a development agreement with the Dallas Zoo for the purpose of design and construction of the 2024 Bond Program Dallas Zoo Partnership Project.
FISCAL INFORMATION
This action has no cost consideration to the City. The agreement is codifying the elements and not requesting new funds or obligations. (Bond funds have already been approved.)
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