The Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance generates more than $270 million in economic impact for Denver annually and over $12 million in tax revenue and is set to grow, according to a new economic impact study by Johnson Consulting.

Eighty-five percent of that revenue is considered “net new,” the study shows.

“Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance, through its engagement of the community and robust economic impact, demonstrates the strength of our cultural organizations and the vital role that they play in our economy,” said Raymond H. Gonzales, president of Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation, in a news release.

The recent study indicated that the Denver Zoo’s economic impact is expected to grow significantly by 2030, bringing in $368 million annually and $17 million in tax revenue.

DZCA hopes that a proposed project, if approved, would attract even more local and national tourists as part of its growth.

The project, which DZCA has submitted a project proposal for the Vibrant Denver Bond, would redevelop a large portion of its 80-acre campus to reflect the wildlife and culture of Latin America, according to the release.

The proposal aims to enhance visitors’ experience and expand educational opportunities by including regional habitats with species like jaguars, Andean bears, capybaras, sloths and golden lion tamarin monkeys.

The new additions include an emphasis on language access, with bilingual signage and education materials for visitors.

The project “reactivates four acres of long-closed space and addresses over 35% of the zoo’s critical deferred maintenance needs while strengthening the zoo’s long-term infrastructure,” according to DZCA.

If approved, the changes would be funded equally by the Vibrant bond and a capital fundraising campaign led by DZCA, in which the zoo assessed economic impact and heard from more than 4,700 community voices.

According to DZCA, the project with provide 1,900 construction jobs, and $460 million across the seven counties served by the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District by 2031.

“The Latin America Experience project represents the future of the DZCA. Much like Toyota Elephant Passage transformed DZCA, this project will be a catalyst for the next era. As a cultural hub, it will draw visitors from across the country — and even the world — while delivering meaningful economic benefits to our city, region and future generations,” said Bert Vescolani, President and CEO of DZCA.

If funding is approved through the Vibrant Denver Bond this fall, DZCA will break ground on the project in December 2025. The project was included on a list of bond priorities released by Mayor Mike Johnston’s office.