Idaho Falls parks staff seek architect contract for zoo entrance, say expanded gift shop will boost revenue

Parks and Recreation staff asked the Idaho Falls City Council for authorization to proceed with phase 2 design services for a new zoo entrance and an expanded gift shop, telling the work session on April 20 that the architecture contract (phases 1+2) carries a not-to-exceed fee of $150,000.

Staff reviewed the zoomaster plan and a 10-year strategic plan that prioritized staff capacity, animal health improvements and revenue generation. Parks & Rec explained the entrance will create better circulation (multiple entry aisles to reduce queuing) and that the proposed gift shop is nearly three times the current retail space. Staff presented revenue comparisons from a consultant and said improved retail and food service would materially increase per-visitor revenue.

"With an appropriate facility we ought to be able to do well," the Parks presenter said, noting the zoological society has raised funds (staff cited about $1 million on hand and growing) and would fund construction for some of the retail and cafe components. Council members asked about staffing implications and whether the new revenues would cover additional personnel; staff said baseline attendance could be served with existing staff but that growth may require more hires funded through gate/revenue increases.

Council did not take a final vote at the work session; staff will bring the architectural-services contract (not-to-exceed $150,000) to the regular-council agenda for approval and will return detailed revenue and staffing projections as part of the budget conversation.