(PARAMUS, NJ) -- Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco, the Board of County Commissioners, and the Bergen County Parks Department has announced the completion of a new Storybook Master Plan outlining a long-term vision for the Bergen County Zoo, including new and expanded animal habitats, enhanced educational opportunities, and improvements designed to strengthen the visitor experience and advance animal care.
The plan, developed with Relevant Strategies & Solutions (RS&S), establishes a framework for priority projects to be advanced in phases over the next five to seven years. The Storybook builds upon the character and traditions that have made the Bergen County Zoo a beloved destination for generations while laying out opportunities for significant improvements in the years ahead.
"This is an ambitious vision for one of the most well-known and beloved destinations in the Bergen County Parks System," said Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco. "For generations, families have come to the Bergen County Zoo to see their favorite animals, learn about wildlife, and make memories together. This Storybook respects that history while giving visitors an exciting look at what the future of the Zoo holds."
The Storybook is organized around five strategic pillars: excellent animal care, people and performance, delivering on the Zoo's mission, awareness and visibility, and community connections. Together, these priorities are intended to strengthen animal care and well-being, conservation and education, the guest experience, and advise the Zoo's long-term operations.
"The Bergen County Zoo holds a special place in our Parks System and in the memories of so many families who have visited over the years," said Commissioner Chairman Steven Tanelli. "This plan gives us a true roadmap to build on what people already love about the Zoo while creating new experiences for the next generation."
Among the major concepts outlined in the plan are:
The Storybook also places a significant emphasis on conservation. The Bergen County Zoo currently supports conservation efforts involving species including the American bison and critically endangered red wolf, participates in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' North American Monarch SAFE, American Red Wolf SAFE and North American Bison SAFE programs, and works with outside organizations on initiatives involving horseshoe crabs, amphibians, and other wildlife.
"The completion of this Storybook gives us a defined framework for what promises to be an exciting next chapter of the Bergen County Zoo's story," said Acting Bergen County Parks Director Craig Dorsett. "Each of these concepts has been developed with animal well-being, conservation, education, and the visitor experience in mind, and we are thrilled to be sharing them the public. It gives our dedicated team, led by Zoo Administrator Harry Peachey, a clear direction as we continue improving the Zoo and creating stronger connections between our visitors, our animals, and the natural world."
The Storybook will serve as a guiding framework as the County evaluates individual projects, funding opportunities, partnerships, sponsorships, and potential philanthropic support. The concepts outlined in the document will be advanced individually as planning, design, funding, and other necessary approvals move forward.
The full Bergen County Zoo Storybook Master Plan can be viewed on the county website.
The Bergen County Zoo is located within Van Saun County Park in Paramus and serves as a regional destination for animal conservation, environmental education, and family recreation.
Superstar saxophonist Kenny G has been a staple in pop and contemporary jazz since the 1980s, with crossover hits such as “Songbird” that have made him a favorite of fans worldwide who love his expressive melodies and emotional solos.
Fights Worth Fighting by Dolph Lundgren is a powerful and unflinchingly honest memoir from one of the most enduring icons of action cinema.
“A JOYFUL, EBULLIENT ANTIDOTE TO REALITY!” — Rolling Stone
Pictured: Ailey II’s Adanna Smalls and Eric J. Vidaña. Photo by Nir Arieli.
Celebrate back-to-school season with a magical Kids Night Out inspired by Matilda! Kids will enjoy themed crafts, exciting games, pizza, drinks, snacks, and fun activities that spark imagination.
