Elmwood Park Zoo officials are seen smiling and toasting on May 31, 2024 as CEO and Executive Director Al Zone and Paige Engro cut the ribbon to the zoo’s new welcome center and Frank and Paige Engro Veterinary Health Center. (Credit: Rachel Ravina / MediaNews Group)
Hundreds celebrated the completion of the Elmwood Park Zoo’s first phase of development as officials on Friday cut the ribbon of the new welcome center, plaza and veterinary hospital.
The entrance space was on display at the Norristown-based zoo as the crowd erupted with excitement and applause after the ribbon cutting ceremony wrapped up. Attendees were then able to enter the newly constructed facilities.
“Today, you are all part of something monumental as Elmwood Park Zoo unveils its largest project in its 100-year history,” said Elmwood Park Zoo Chief Operating Officer Eric Donovan.
‘Local treasure’
Established in 1924, the Norristown-based zoo has around 300 animals and employs nearly 100 staff members. Around 500,000 people visit the zoo each year, located at 1661 Harding Blvd.
Along with zoo representatives, elected officials and community leaders were present at the Friday morning ceremony that highlighted the role the institution plays in the area. The first phase encompassed 39,000 square feet and totaled $41 million in improvements.
“Never have I ever been more proud to be from Norristown, to live in Norristown and to have a seat at the table charting the course for Norristown’s future than right now,” said state Rep. Greg Scott, D-54th Dist.
Montgomery County Commissioners’ Chairwoman Jamila Winder agreed.
“Elmwood is truly a local treasure with global appeal,” she said, adding that “100 years looks great on (the) Elmwood Park Zoo.”
Part of a plan
When cultivating a comprehensive $150 million master plan for the zoo, revamping the entrance and medical facility was the first step. A $30 million donation was designated back in October 2022 to further that goal – what would become the zoo’s welcome center and the Frank and Paige Engro Veterinary Health Center. Construction began in April 2023.
While Frank Engro died in August 2022, Paige represented her family during Friday morning’s ceremonial proceedings. She shared that her husband was a native of Norristown and credited much of his success to “his Norristown roots.” Paige stressed how he always “wanted to give back to his hometown.” The couple originally met with Donovan and Development Director Jennifer Conti to discuss ways to contribute.
“But Al, he would be so humbled and impressed by what you and the entire team have accomplished with the seed gift he gave the zoo. You took his dream and you ran with it,” Engro said.
Zone paused for a moment to honor Frank’s memory as he told the crowd he dedicated his jacket to Frank Engro, insisting his presence was felt on Friday.
“He sees this building. Perfect weather. Not a cloud in the sky. He’s kind of looking down, probably judging a bunch of us, telling us what he thinks, telling me to keep it short and sweet,” Zone said as laughter could be heard from the audience. “What an amazing building.”
The construction process took nearly 14 months, according to Donovan. Along with expanded parking opportunities, the welcome includes restrooms, exhibits, a cafe as well as a 4,000-square-foot gift shop.
The Elmwood Park Zoo is one of 238 institutions accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Highlighting the medical component, windows were incorporated so visitors could witness procedures ranging from check ups to surgeries. Dr. Michele Goodman serves as the zoo’s veterinarian. The hospital area also contains computed tomography scans, which Zone previously said only two other facilities in the country have, San Diego Zoo and Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
This has been a long time coming for Norristown as representatives from the zoo presented a series of plans to council members in the county seat.
“Seeing the building in person is incredible after seeing the blueprints for so many years,” Norristown Municipal Councilwoman Rebecca Smith told MediaNews Group.
“This is phenomenal,” said Norristown Municipal Councilwoman Lauren Hughes, adding “I’m just excited for Al, I’m excited for the zoo. I’m excited for Norristown. It’s going to be a premier destination. It’s coming soon, and I’m excited. I’m excited to be a part of it.”
More to come
Following the first phase’s completion, additional development plans include an overall campus expansion across the creek, the construction of a pedestrian bridge, as well as Asia and South America exhibits.
Zone referenced several future potential opportunities at a Norristown Municipal Council work session earlier this month to partner with the nearby Central Montco Technical High School to launch a vet-tech program. He also suggested working with municipal officials related to stormwater and beautification improvements.
“As we move forward, let’s continue to remember the importance of places like the Elmwood Park Zoo. They not only provide a sanctuary for animals, but they also serve as a vital resource — one that provides a safe haven for curiosity and wonder for little Frank Engros, little Charles Blocksons, and maybe one day, a little Greg Scott,” Scott said. “I look forward to seeing the positive impact that these new facilities will have on our community and beyond.”
This article appears courtesy of a content share agreement between Wissahickon Now and The Ambler Gazette. To read more stories like this, visit the Ambler Gazette.
