Griffo Announces $100,000 In Funding For Utica Zoo

A $100,000 state grant is headed to the Utica Zoo.

State Senator Joseph Griffo announced the grant today, one day after the Zoo wrapped up its 30th annual Halloween Spooktacular.  Utica Mayor Robert Palmieri was also on hand for today's announcement.

The Zoo's Executive Director Andria Heath says the funding will be used to renovate the primate building and the building used for housing educational animals.  Heath says the projects will also help the Zoo achieve accreditation.

Heath said “The Utica Zoo is so fortunate to have ambassadors in Albany like our own Senator Joe Griffo, who understands the value the Zoo brings to our region. The Zoo has a robust presence, recruits staff from here at home and throughout the nation, and contributes to our local economy as a tourist destination. The support that is provided to the Zoo is intended to serve as a catalyst to multiply everything we have to offer, and we look forward to much continued success.”

Several weeks ago, the Utica Zoo unveiled its Master Plan for the next three to five years of a 20 year outlook.