Texas Border Business
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – In a groundbreaking move, the City of Brownsville, the Gladys Porter Zoo, and the Brownsville Independent School District (BISD) are moving forward together as ONE CITY with a dynamic project that will greatly enhance the future of the Gladys Porter Zoo as a world-class attraction, in addition to, the relocation of BISD’s Career and Technology Education (CTE) program that could facilitate its expansion.
Following a unanimous approval, from both the BISD’s Board of Trustees and the City of Brownsville, an Amended and Restated Interlocal Agreement has been enacted. This includes a lease agreement and a Real Estate Contract between BISD and the City regarding the Cummings property. This strategic alliance will create a synergy that benefits both educational and community goals.
“This project represents a milestone in our collaborative effort and vision, harnessing our collective resources to enhance educational facilities and community attractions like the Gladys Porter Zoo,” said John Cowen, Jr., Brownsville City Mayor.
The partnership is helping meet the immediate needs of our students and sets a foundation for sustained community growth and development. The relocation of the CTE program will continue to create professional opportunities for our youth, agreed Dr. Jesus H. Chavez, BISD Superintendent.
“We are thrilled with the school district’s decision to support the expansion project, which marks a significant milestone for our beloved Zoo and its mission of conservation, education, research and healthy outdoor recreation,” said Patrick M. Burchfield, Executive Director of the Gladys Porter Zoo. “Enhanced and expanded facilities for our animals are needed to keep pace with the ever-increasing level of excellence in animal care required to remain accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums.”
“The City of Brownsville is committed to this $16M investment in BISD through the purchase of the Cummings property, site of the current CTE program,” said Helen Ramirez, ICMA-CM, AICP, Brownsville City Manager. “This is about our community’s future, ensuring a win-win-win situation for BISD, the Zoo, and the City. This effort is a testament to the power of our ONE CITY efforts.”
The project is expected to be supported by a key community partner, the Greater Brownsville Incentives Corporation (GBIC), as the collaborative project aims to further enhance educational opportunities.
The property acquisition will allow the Gladys Porter Zoo to nearly double in size, accommodating an African savannah with a watering hole for giraffe and other hoof stock as well as a forest to provide spacious facilities for two groups of West African lowland gorillas. Other amenities include an entrance complex and a multi-level parking garage that will replace current Zoo parking areas slated for conversion into new animal exhibits. Another feature of the project is the possible buildout of a hotel/restaurant area near the Zoo on a separate property to compliment the Brownsville tourist area. Meanwhile, the anticipated new CTE campus will service BISD students offering existing and possibly new certifications in diverse fields.
This collaborative effort marks a significant step towards meeting the evolving needs of Brownsville’s youth and the entire community, ensuring a bright and prosperous future for all.
