The Dallas Zoo has released an economic impact study showing the zoo generates billions for the city. The study, conducted by Tourism Economics, found that the Dallas Zoo delivers an $18 return on every $1 the city invests. Over the next 12 years, the zoo will generate $3.2 billion in total economic impact for the city and will contribute nearly $150 million in state and local tax revenue.

Economic Impact

The zoo provides nearly 1,800 jobs annually and will welcome about 1 million guests a year. According to the study, 77% of the zoo’s visitors are from outside Dallas, and many of them also spend money on hotel rooms, restaurants, and shops in the city.

Dallas Zoo CEO Lisa New stated, ‘We’re not only generating tourism but, more importantly, creating local jobs that support development in southern Dallas and ensuring the public investment benefits Dallas families.’ The zoo will need the city’s continued support as it looks to break ground on a 15-acre Safari Trail expansion project, as well as modernize habitats and enhance the visitor experience.

City Support

The city of Dallas’s support and funding helps the zoo maintain 111 acres and more than 150 buildings and facilities across two campuses, while allowing the zoo to provide exceptional care for more than 2,000 animals and maintain the staff and resources needed to serve the community every day.

However, the city is facing a budget shortfall in the tens of millions due to police and fire overtime costs, lower-than-expected sales tax revenue, and rising employee health expenses. A proposal suggested reducing stipends to partner groups like the zoo by 3%. If approved in September, that would take effect in October.

Original reporting: Dallas – Ft. Worth Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.