Task Force

Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott, Jr. and the Arkansas Zoological Foundation convened a Task Force in 2019 to plan for the future of the Little Rock Zoo. The task force was advised by zoo consultants, RS&S, and worked with Zoo Director Susan Altrui on recommendations for a strategic business plan. During their work, the task force updated the current facility master plan that helps the Zoo meet its mission of creating engaging experiences that inspire people to value and conserve our natural world. On January 7, 2020, the task force presented their findings to the Little Rock City Board of Directors. Click here to read the full report.

The new vision outlined for the Zoo includes exciting new animal habitats such as an African area with giraffe and a new bear habitat. Below are conceptual renderings of our new Zoo designed by GLMV Architects.

Members of the task force include:

Brad Cazort, Chair of the Zoo Board of Governors

Lisa Buehler, Chair of the Arkansas Zoological Foundation; Owner, Allegra & Image 360 – Little Rock

State Senator Joyce Elliot, Vice-Chair of the Mayor’s Quality of Life Subcommittee for the Scott Script

Kathy Webb, City Ward 3 Director; Liaison to the Zoo Board of Governors

Mallory Jayroe, Generation Zoo Young Professionals

Chad Causey, Causey Law Firm, Board Member, Arkansas Zoological Foundation

Joni Lee, Vice Chancellor of University Affairs, U of A Little Rock

Hank Kelley, CEO/Partner, Flake & Kelley Commercial

Tab Townsell, Executive Director, Metroplan

Rhonna Wade, Chair, Create Little Rock

Gretchen Hall, Executive Director, Little Rock Convention and Visitors Bureau

Brandon Bibby, Associate AIA, WER Architects/Planners

Nate Coulter, Director, Central Arkansas Library System

Susan Altrui, Ex Officio, Director, Little Rock Zoo

Jay Chessir, Ex Officio, President & CEO, Greater Little Rock Chamber of Commerce