Amarillo Zoo Future Takes Major Step Forward

New nonprofit partnership approved to take over operations and transform the zoo

Mar. 28, 2026 at 12:57pm

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The Amarillo City Council has approved a new lease agreement that will allow Amarillo Zoo & Sanctuary, Inc. (AZS) to take over operations of the Amarillo Zoo. The new model is designed to modernize the facility and create long-term sustainability, with a focus on conservation, education, and community engagement.

Why it matters

This partnership marks a significant step forward for the Amarillo Zoo, which has struggled with funding and outdated facilities in recent years. The transition to a nonprofit model will allow the zoo to pursue grants, donations, and partnerships to improve the visitor experience and animal habitats.

The details

Under the 20-year lease agreement, AZS will handle all daily operations, programming, and new development at the zoo, while the city maintains ownership of the land, buildings, and animals. The city may also provide up to $900,000 in grant funding over the next six years to help with the transition. The Amarillo Zoo must continue to operate as a community education facility, offering programs like school field trips and camps.

  • In November 2025, Stephanie Brady with the Wild West Wildlife Rehabilitation Center presented a proposal to the City of Amarillo to take over operations of the Amarillo Zoo.
  • On March 28, 2026, the Amarillo City Council approved the new lease agreement with Amarillo Zoo & Sanctuary, Inc.

The players

Amarillo Zoo & Sanctuary, Inc. (AZS)

A new nonprofit organization that will take over the daily operations, programming, and development of the Amarillo Zoo under a 20-year lease agreement with the city.

Stephanie Brady

The director of the Wild West Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, who presented the proposal to the City of Amarillo to take over the Amarillo Zoo.

City of Amarillo

The owner of the Amarillo Zoo, including the land, buildings, and animals, who has approved the new lease agreement with AZS.

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What they’re saying

“Our vision is to transform the Amarillo Zoo & Sanctuary into a place focused on providing lifelong sanctuary and the best possible care for the animals already here. We want to share their stories, explain why they are here, and create a welcoming, family oriented place where people can connect with wildlife while learning about conservation.”

— Stephanie Brady, Director, Wild West Wildlife Rehabilitation Center

What’s next

The city may provide up to $900,000 in grant funding over the next six years to help with the transition, and the Amarillo Zoo & Sanctuary, Inc. will begin implementing its plans to modernize the facility and improve the visitor experience.

The takeaway

This partnership represents a significant opportunity for the Amarillo Zoo to evolve and become a premier destination for conservation, education, and community engagement. By transitioning to a nonprofit model, the zoo can pursue new funding sources and partnerships to enhance the animal habitats and visitor amenities, ultimately creating a more sustainable and engaging experience for the community.