Karla Valenzuela 
BROWNSVILLE – The City of Brownsville has received 6.5 million dollars from the American Rescue Plan, and 5.5 million will be allocated to the replacement of Gladys Porter Zoo’s infrastructure.
The water and wastewater pipes are as old as the 50-year-old zoo. The replacement of its infrastructure is the first step in the city’s master plan for the zoo renovation. The zoo will be getting new exhibits and new animals by December 2023.
“The initial part won’t affect the visitors because it’s [going to] be in the perimeter aisle behind the buildings and that’s where all the new water and sewer is [going to] run,” said Dr. Patrick Burchfield, Director of Gladys Porter Zoo.
Dr. Burchfield said the City Commission has awarded a contract to Hanson Engineering to start the layout process.
“We’re really excited about the City of Brownsville pitching in and realizing what value the zoo brings to the Rio Grande Valley and Brownsville in particular,” he shared.
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