Governor Hochul Marks Groundbreaking for $135 Million Transformational Project at Monroe County’s Seneca Park Zoo in Rochester

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the groundbreaking for a $135 million transformational project at the Seneca Park Zoo in Monroe County — the region’s second biggest tourist attraction. The Tropics Complex Exhibit building will include the Tropical Forest, Tropical Island Habitats, Pacific Reef Habitats, education space, event space, administrative offices, and the new zoo gift shop. The new building will additionally house 60,000 gallons of aquatic habitats including, a 30,000-gallon Amazon River tank, a komodo dragon pool, a madagascar cichlid tank, a coral reef tank, and a shark touch tank. anticipated species include orangutan, lemur siamang, coral cat shark, amazon fish & rays, jellyfish and giant pacific octopus among other tropical species. Construction is expected to be completed in late 2029.

“For more than 130 years, the Seneca Park Zoo has been an important part of the region’s history, educating and entertaining hundreds of thousands of visitors and residents alike,” Governor Hochul said. “Through this public-privately funded transformative project, we will ensure that tradition continues, bolstering the zoo’s mission through venue modernization and expanded programming that will continue to enhance the overall guest experience.”

The groundbreaking also comes as Monroe County celebrates the 100th anniversary of the county parks system.

Monroe County Executive Adam J. Bello said, “Today’s groundbreaking of the Tropics Exhibit marks a monumental leap forward for the Seneca Park Zoo, cementing its status as a world-class attraction and a cornerstone of Monroe County, and advancing conservation efforts for generations to come. This transformative milestone is made possible through Governor Hochul’s significant investment and unwavering partnership in uplifting the quality of life for Monroe County families.”

Governor Hochul first announced $42.5 million in state support for the project in March of 2022. In addition to state support, Monroe County is investing a total of $67.6 million in the project, the New York State Historic Preservation Office has committed $1.9 million and the Seneca Park Zoo Society has committed to raising an additional $23 million to support the completion of this capital improvement project.

Seneca Park Zoo Society President and CEO Pamela Reed Sanchez said, “This is the most transformative project in the Zoo’s history, creating an immersive experience that will change how people see zoos. The Tropics Complex will amplify our ability to reach every person in our community to give them nature-based days of joy and wonder, while inspiring them to help make our region greener and more sustainable. This is an investment in growth, strengthening not just Seneca Park Zoo, but our entire region.”

Originally established in 1894, Monroe County’s Seneca Park Zoo, located in the City of Rochester, is currently home to over 90 species including mammals, reptiles, birds, amphibians, fish and arachnids. Seneca Park Zoo hosts many events throughout the year and partners with many communities in the region to educate the public about animal and resource conservation and environmental awareness. More than 350,000 people visit the zoo each year. The zoo additionally supports over 14,000 member households and hosts thousands of participants each year through school programs, camps and other community events.

Governor Hochul is committed to supporting projects that bolster tourism. Last year, New York State welcomed a record-high 321 million visitors, who generated more than $97 billion in direct spending and $152 billion in total economic impact. Tourism supports one out of every nine jobs across the state.

Empire State Development CEO, President and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Governor Hochul recognizes the importance of the tourism economy, which supports jobs and regional growth. The upgrades at Rochester’s Seneca Park Zoo — including the new Tropics Complex Exhibit - will provide a more engaging and welcoming experience for visitors, while further advancing the zoo’s focused mission to inspire the community through local and global animal conservation efforts.”

State Senator Jeremy Cooney said, “The Seneca Park Zoo is a cornerstone of the Greater Rochester community, welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. The new Tropics Complex exhibit building will be transformational, helping accelerate modernization and creating new opportunities for tourism and economic growth. I’m grateful for Governor Hochul’s continued support and investment in Rochester.”

State Senator Samra Brouk said, “Community investments in historical institutions like the Seneca Park Zoo help us make Monroe County an even better place to live and visit. I look forward to witnessing the completion of innovative additions to the Zoo, including unique, immersive exhibits, which will create lasting memories for the families, friends and residents of our county for years to come.”

Assemblymember Harry B. Bronson said, “The Seneca Park Zoo has been a special place in our community for over 130 years, and each year welcomes thousands of families and visitors from around the region through unique programming and attractions. The new Tropics Complex Exhibit will expand on The Seneca Park Zoo’s legacy and ensure it is prepared for the next generation of learners with interactive, sustainability focused exhibits. Thank you, Governor Hochul and County Executive Bello, for championing this exciting investment.”

Assemblymember Sarah Clark said, “The zoo is a special place for families across our community, and this investment will make it even more exciting for the next generation of visitors. The new Tropics Complex will create opportunities for children and families to encounter incredible animals up close, discover the diversity of our natural world, and learn why protecting wildlife and their habitats matters. Additionally, by improving what is already one of our largest tourism draws, this project will also support jobs and bring more visitors to Rochester. I am grateful to Governor Hochul, Monroe County, the Seneca Park Zoo Society and everyone who helped make this transformative project possible and cannot wait to see the impact that it has.”

Assemblymember Demond Meeks said, “The groundbreaking of the new Tropics Complex marks the arrival of an exciting new experience for Rochester families, educators, and visitors alike. By creating dynamic educational spaces and world-class aquatic habitats, this landmark project ensures that Seneca Park Zoo remains a premier regional destination. The zoo is a source of community pride, and this state-of-the-art facility has the potential to bring many more visitors to our community."

City of Rochester Mayor Malik D. Evans said, “The Seneca Park Zoo Tropics Complex will advance the goals of the City of Rochester’s Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights by providing our children opportunities to experience the diversity of life on earth without even leaving the city. I want to thank Gov. Kathy Hochul, Monroe County Executive Adam Bello, and all our partners for making this investment that will foster a lifelong love of exploring the natural, outdoor world and protecting our planet.”

For additional information about the Seneca Park Zoo, visit: https://senecaparkzoo.org/about/.

About Parks 100

From October 2026 through October 2027, Monroe County will be celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Monroe County Parks system. The Parks 100 celebration honors the evolution of the beloved parks system and recommits to the continual stewardship of these natural assets.To learn more about Parks 100 and to stay updated on community events during the celebration, visit: https://www.monroecounty.gov/parks100.

Accelerating Economic Development in the Finger Lakes

Today’s announcement complements “Finger Lakes Forward,” the region’s comprehensive strategy to generate robust economic growth and community development. The regionally designed plan focuses on investing in key industries including photonics, agriculture‎ and food production, and advanced manufacturing. More information is available here.

About Empire State Development

Empire State Development is New York's chief economic development agency, and promotes business growth, job creation, and greater economic opportunity throughout the state. With offices in each of the state's 10 regions, ESD oversees the Regional Economic Development Councils, supports broadband equity through the ConnectALL office, and is growing the workforce of tomorrow through the Office of Strategic Workforce Development. The agency engages with emerging and next generation industries like clean energy and semiconductor manufacturing looking to grow in New York State, operates a network of assistance centers to help small businesses grow and succeed, and promotes the state's world class tourism destinations through I LOVE NY. For more information, please visit esd.ny.gov, and connect with ESD on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X.

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