The Potawatomi Zoo‘s expansion plan would contribute $343 million to the South Bend area economy over 10 years, according to an economic impact study commissioned by the zoo.
The study, which was completed by Zoo Advisors and Market Feasibility Advisors, found that the $37 million expansion plan would support 652 new jobs and $85 million in labor income, mostly from construction projects.
Potawatomi Zoo officials commissioned the study after announcing the plan in 2015. The changes include bringing in animals such as penguins and snow leopards; adding interactive features such as giraffe feeding and a zip-line over the alligator pond; and expanding educational offerings.
The study also found that the planned changes at the zoo will increase visitation more than 160 percent to 350,000 annual visitors. The new visitors would also be drawn to other local offerings, including restaurants, other recreational venues like Four Winds Field and family entertainment centers and retail stores.
- RELATED: Potawatomi Zoo adding zip line, carousel, giraffes, penguins and more attractions in $37 million expansion plan, July 9, 2015
Potawatomi Zoo officials plan to use the study’s findings to push for a portion of a proposed 1 percent food and beverage tax to go to the zoo for its master plan.
The zoo is also seeking grants and private donations to help pay for the improvements.
