Hope is still on the horizon for the much anticipated North Alabama Zoo project.

In collaboration with leaders from Limestone County, the North Alabama Zoological Society (NALZS) has crafted a comprehensive funding proposal for Phase 1 of the zoo project, drawing inspiration from successful funding models employed by family enrichment facilities nationwide. Tailoring their approach to capitalize on Limestone County’s unique assets and opportunities, NALZS aims to secure public funding to propel the project forward.

According to a recent press statement, the NALZS has conducted extensive research into the successful formation of zoos throughout the United States, determining that a key feature to initial opening has been public funding.

“This has been the recipe how other great zoos in the United States have started and the approach mirrors the successful establishment of other local attractions in recent years, reflecting a broader trend towards public investment in community assets,” said the NALZS in a recent press statement.

The contributions from patrons have laid a solid foundation for the zoo project in the past, underscoring the community’s commitment to education and conservation efforts. However, the NALZS is transitioning from conceptualization to tangible development, necessitating public funding to fulfill the community’s aspirations for a center of education, conservation, and community enrichment.

According to the NALZS, Limestone County’s selection as the project site reflects strategic considerations.

“Limestone County was chosen as the project site for its strategic benefits, such as its proximity to major tourism corridors and relative land value affordability. As the fastest-growing county in Alabama, Limestone County is an ideal location for a new zoo that could serve as a remarkable addition to the county’s amenities. Although we know the zoo will offer substantial quality of life improvements to all citizens of North Alabama, we have secured significant benefits specifically for Limestone County residents,” according to a recent NALZS press statement.

According to NALZS leadership, community input and participation has been a major factor in past success, and will be the major focus moving forward as the organization attempts to establish the zoo.

“We are deeply grateful for the leaders who support this project and the democratic process,” said NALZS past board chair, Keeley Sykes. “While we work to gain legislative support, we are passionate about giving the county residents an opportunity to exercise their right to vote on matters that impact their community. As a longtime Limestone County resident, I know our constituents believe in the transformative potential of having our own zoo, and their testimonies, thoughts, and wishes deserve to be heard. We remain hopeful and will continue to work tirelessly to bring this opportunity to the public to decide.”

For more information about our programs, zoo project, or to support our efforts through a donation, please visit www.NALZS.org.