NORRISTOWN, Pa. (May 15, 2026) —  Governor Josh Shapiro and First Lady Lori Shapiro visited Elmwood Park Zoo on Friday to tour the Zoo’s recently completed Frank and Paige Engro Welcome Center and Veterinary Hospital, while learning more about the Zoo’s continued expansion plans and long-term vision for the future.

The visit highlighted the impact of the $3 million in Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) funding authorized by Governor Shapiro and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in 2024, which helped support the development of the new Welcome Center and Veterinary Hospital project completed later that year.

“From day one, my Administration has been focused on growing Pennsylvania’s economy through strategic investments that strengthen our communities and attract more visitors to our Commonwealth,” said Governor Shapiro. “Elmwood Park Zoo has become a major regional destination, growing annual attendance from 119,000 visitors in 2011 to more than 1.3 million today. That’s a big deal — and my Administration will continue to invest in projects that boost tourism, create jobs, and support local economies like this one in Norristown.”

During their time at the Zoo, the Governor and First Lady  toured the new facilities, met with Zoo leadership and staff, and experienced several of the Zoo’s animal ambassadors and guest-favorite species. The visit included encounters with Reggie the eagle, one of the two live mascots for the Philadelphia Eagles, Stella the owl, the live mascot for Temple Owls, and a giraffe feeding with Dhoruba.

“Today was an incredible opportunity to showcase not only the transformation of our campus, but also the vision we have for the future of Elmwood Park Zoo,” said Al Zone, CEO of Elmwood Park Zoo. “We are grateful to Governor Shapiro and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for their support of projects that continue to elevate the guest experience, strengthen animal care, and expand our ability to serve the community.”

Zoo leadership also shared updates on Elmwood Park Zoo’s ongoing Master Plan, which outlines future exhibit enhancements, expanded guest amenities, accessibility improvements, and continued growth of the Zoo campus in the years ahead.

As the world’s first Certified Autism Center zoo, Elmwood Park Zoo also highlighted its continued commitment to accessibility and inclusion during the visit. Since earning the designation in 2018, the Zoo has remained focused on creating welcoming experiences for guests of all abilities through staff training, sensory-friendly resources, and employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Governor Shapiro to the Elmwood Park Zoo today to share one of the most exciting destinations District 17 has to offer,” said Senator Amanda Cappelletti, PA’s 17th Senatorial District. “The Zoo brings nature and the beauty of wildlife right into our backyards, and its new Welcome Center and Veterinary Health Center further strengthen its role as a leader in wildlife and environmental conservation. I look forward to continuing my work with the Governor to uplift the Zoo, its staff, their mission, and everything this institution brings to our community.”

“The Elmwood Park Zoo has long played an integral role in our community, from offering family-friendly events throughout the year to free admission days for Norristown residents every month,” said Representative Greg Scott, PA’s 54th House District. “Their commitment to our neighborhood and to the animals they care for is unparalleled. The new facilities we toured today position them to become even stronger leaders in the care of exotic animals, and I’m grateful to Governor Shapiro and every state and local leader who saw this project through to completion.”

The Frank and Paige Engro Welcome Center and Veterinary Hospital officially opened in 2024 and serves as a cornerstone of the Zoo’s evolving campus, enhancing both guest services and behind-the-scenes animal care operations as Elmwood Park Zoo continues to grow.

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ABOUT ELMWOOD PARK ZOO
Elmwood Park Zoo, located in Norristown, Pennsylvania, is home to a diverse collection of species from around the world and is dedicated to wildlife conservation, education, and providing memorable guest experiences. Open year-round, the Zoo offers up-close animal encounters, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly attractions including the ZooBrew Beer Garden, a carousel, and seasonal events. Through hands-on learning opportunities and community programming, Elmwood Park Zoo inspires guests of all ages to connect with wildlife and the natural world. For more information, visit www.elmwoodparkzoo.org