FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 13, 2026
Contact:
Derek Sands
DSands@BergenCountyNJ.gov
STORYBOOK “MASTER PLAN” FOR THE BERGEN COUNTY ZOO UNDERWAY
PARAMUS, N.J. – Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco, the Board of County Commissioners, and the County Parks Department announce that the Bergen County Zoo has entered into an agreement with Relevant Strategies & Solutions (RS&S) to conduct a Facility Concept Plan Storybook for the Zoo. The project was awarded at the February 11, 2026 County Commissioners Public Meeting and is expected to be completed by the end of July 2026.
The Storybook will serve as a planning and engagement tool designed to help define and illustrate the Zoo’s priority capital projects and future vision through narrative storytelling, conceptual planning, and digital renderings. The final product will include a conceptual site plan, strategic priorities, and visual concepts intended to guide future facility-related improvements.
RS&S, a nationally recognized consulting firm with extensive experience working with accredited zoos and aquariums across the country, will work closely with Zoo leadership, County officials, and the Friends of the Bergen County Zoo throughout the planning process. The effort will include on-site meetings, stakeholder discussions, strategic planning sessions, and the development of conceptual renderings highlighting potential future animal habitats, guest amenities, and educational experiences.
“This process is about building a vision for the future of the Bergen County Zoo while continuing to strengthen the experience for families, improve animal habitats, and support the Zoo’s long-term sustainability,” said Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco. “The Bergen County Zoo is one of our County’s most beloved attractions, and this Storybook will help provide a thoughtful roadmap for future improvements and opportunities in the years ahead.”
“The Bergen County Zoo plays an important role in conservation, education, and recreation for residents throughout our region,” said Zoo Administrator Harry Peachey. “This planning process will help us identify strategic priorities and better communicate the Zoo’s future vision to the community, partners, and potential supporters.”
“This initiative is about making sure the Bergen County Zoo continues to grow and evolve in a thoughtful, strategic way for future generations,” said Steven Tanelli, Chairman of the Board of County Commissioners. “The Storybook will help create a shared vision for the Zoo’s future while strengthening its role as a destination for education, conservation, and family recreation here in Bergen County.”
The Storybook will include strategic goals, conceptual renderings, project impact summaries, and investment opportunities related to future Zoo improvements. The project is intended to help position the Zoo for future fundraising, sponsorship, and grant opportunities while creating a unifying framework for facility planning over the next five to seven years.
The Bergen County Zoo, located in Van Saun County Park in Paramus, welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors annually and remains a cornerstone of Bergen County’s Parks System and environmental education efforts.
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