LA City Council Approves Settlement Modifying LA Zoo Expansion Plan
The Los Angeles City Council unanimously approved a settlement today that will modify the LA Zoo’s expansion plan following a lawsuit brought by environmental advocates, potentially reshaping the future of animal habitats and visitor experiences at the landmark institution.
In a 14-0 vote, council members authorized Zoo Director Denise Verret to finalize the agreement with the Griffith J. Griffith Charitable Trust and the Friends of Griffith Park. The settlement concludes a two-year legal battle stemming from the 2023 LA Zoo Vision Plan, which proposed improvements to zoo facilities aimed at increasing animal space by 162% and protecting 95% of existing trees. Plaintiffs challenged the plan’s proposed “Condor Canyon” exhibit and a visitor center, arguing they would negatively impact the surrounding environment.
Friends of Griffith Park President Gerry Hans said the group successfully argued against the “Condor Canyon,” describing it as a “massive excavation through a ridge line” that was “excessive.” “We won this a long time ago in the court of public opinion because people thought that it was just excessive, and it wasn’t focused on animal care,” Hans told City News Service. As part of the agreement, the city will forgo the construction of an 18,000-square-foot visitor center and restaurant, opting instead for three smaller outdoor shade structures. The zoo also agreed to preserve five acres of a planned 16-acre development area. You can learn more about the California Environmental Quality Act, which played a role in the settlement, here.
The settlement now heads to Mayor Karen Bass for consideration, and Friends of Griffith Park anticipates a court appearance in the coming weeks to finalize the agreement. Hans expressed optimism, stating, “I think the zoo is going to be a better zoo because of it.” The LA Zoo is a significant regional attraction, drawing millions of visitors annually, and changes to its development plans are closely watched by both conservationists and the public. For more information about the LA Zoo, visit their official website.
