By Dan Sullivan, Times Staff Writer
Friday, December 3, 2010
TAMPA — A $10 million capital campaign will fund a new animal hospital and animal science center as part of an expansion at the Lowry Park Zoo.
Zoo officials announced the plans Friday in a ceremony at the zoo's Florida wildlife exhibit, which is near where the complex will take shape.
About $4.7 million has already been raised.
Craig Pugh, executive director and CEO, said the expansion will make Lowry Park a leader in providing zoological care.
"This facility will bring together keepers, curators and veterinary staff under one roof to encourage collaboration and link our work with colleagues in other states and countries," Pugh said.
In addition to the new animal care facilities, a fund-raising campaign will pay for renovation of the zoo's Florida boardwalk and creation of new exhibits and visitor amenities already under development.
The money raised so far includes a $1 million contribution from the Jacarlene Foundation, for whom the new hospital and science center will be named.