Bergen County officials have released a comprehensive, long-term blueprint for the future of the beloved Bergen County Zoo. Announced by County Executive Jim Tedesco, the Board of County Commissioners, and the Bergen County Parks Department, the Storybook Master Plan outlines a multi-million-dollar modernization effort to be rolled out in phases over the next five to seven years.
Developed in partnership with Relevant Strategies & Solutions (RS&S), the plan seeks to balance the historic charm of the zoo—located within Van Saun County Park—with state-of-the-art animal care facilities, expanded conservation programs, and upgraded visitor experiences.
The blueprint introduces several major exhibits and infrastructure upgrades designed to elevate animal welfare and community engagement:
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New Andean Condor Habitat: Currently in the design and engineering phase, this feature will include a towering 29-foot-high aviary optimized for gliding, perching, and exploration.
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Red Panda Introduction: Two interconnected outdoor habitats will feature elevated pathways, specialized denning areas, and climate-controlled holding spaces for the zoo’s newest residents.
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Spider Monkey & Capybara Exhibit: Designed to provide vastly expanded climbing space for spider monkeys while officially welcoming capybaras back to the facility.
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Relocated Bergen Dutch Barn and Farmyard: Will offer larger animal enclosures alongside enhanced spaces for hands-on learning and zookeeper presentations.
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Future White Rhino Savannah: An expansive habitat featuring multi-angle viewing areas, including scenic vantage points from the popular zoo train.
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Conservation Education Center: Set to serve as a modern hub for community engagement, featuring classrooms, an auditorium, expanded educational animal programming, and an event venue overlooking the proposed rhino savannah.
The master plan is anchored by five core strategic pillars: excellent animal care, people and performance, mission delivery, visibility, and community connections.
Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco emphasized that the plan honors the zoo’s decades-long history as a regional family destination while aggressively looking toward the future.
“For generations, families have come to the Bergen County Zoo to see their favorite animals, learn about wildlife, and make memories together,” Tedesco said. “This Storybook respects that history while giving visitors an exciting look at what the future of the Zoo holds.”
The zoo already plays an active role in national wildlife preservation, supporting critically endangered species like the American bison and red wolf through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) SAFE programs, alongside local initiatives for horseshoe crabs and amphibians.
Acting Bergen County Parks Director Craig Dorsett noted that the master plan gives the zoo’s team—led by Zoo Administrator Harry Peachey—a clear roadmap. Each initiative will be evaluated individually as design, funding, partnerships, and philanthropic support advance over the coming years.
Residents can view the complete Storybook Master Plan here.
