Frankfurt Zoo to Gain a Second Visitor Entrance Integrated into Frankfurt Conservation Center
Frankfurt Zoo is set to welcome a new entrance, integrated into a cutting-edge facility dedicated to global nature and species conservation. The Frankfurt Conservation Center (FFC) will be erected on the eastern side of the zoological park. This development follows an intent declaration passed by the city council. Currently, Frankfurt Zoo only has one visitor entrance on the western side of the premises.
The FFC project, initially approved by the city council and the city assembly in late 2020, has now reached a stage where detailed construction and financing plans are available, as announced by the city. These plans are subject to another round of approval from the city assembly.
The FFC aims to serve as a think-tank for the preservation of biodiversity, according to Zoo Director Christina Geiger.
"The establishment of the FFC is the third pillar of our concept for the contemporary evolution of the aging Frankfurt Zoo. We envision a harmonious integration of animal keeping, visitor experience, and species and nature conservation within the zoo grounds," said Ina Hartwig (SPD), City Councilor for Culture and Science.
Comprehensive Concept for Zoo Modernization
The Frankfurt Conservation Center is part of a comprehensive modernization strategy for the beloved zoo. Apart from the new entrance, the project encompasses several other ambitious initiatives.
- Enhancing Animal Welfare: The zoo is committed to improving animal welfare through state-of-the-art enclosures and species-appropriate husbandry practices. The FFC will play a crucial role in fostering research and innovation in these areas.
- Improving Visitor Experience: The new visitor entrance will provide a welcoming and inclusive experience for zoo patrons. The FFC will offer interactive exhibits, educational programs, and immersive encounters with wildlife.
- Advancing Conservation Efforts: The Frankfurt Conservation Center will serve as a hub for conservation research, collaboration, and outreach. It will contribute to the global fight against the extinction crisis.
Collaboration and Funding
The FFC project is a collaboration between the City of Frankfurt, the Frankfurt Zoological Society, and numerous conservation organizations. The construction and operation of the center will be funded through a combination of public and private sources.
Timeline and Next Steps
The construction of the Frankfurt Conservation Center is scheduled to begin in 2024. The center is expected to open its doors to the public in 2028.
Upon approval by the city assembly, the next steps in the process include finalizing the project design, securing construction permits, and launching a fundraising campaign to attract private contributions.
Anticipated Impact
The Frankfurt Conservation Center is poised to make significant contributions on multiple fronts. It will:
- Enhance the animal welfare and conservation efforts of Frankfurt Zoo
- Provide an unparalleled educational and experiential resource for visitors
- Advance global conservation initiatives
- Strengthen the city’s reputation as a center for scientific research and environmental action
The Frankfurt Zoo’s second visitor entrance and the Frankfurt Conservation Center represent a bold and visionary step towards creating a zoo of the future – a place where animal care, visitor engagement, and environmental stewardship converge harmoniously.
