Jackson Seeks Plan to Revive Zoo, Livingston Park
The city has released a request for information seeking concepts to redevelop Livingston Park and the Jackson Zoo as a unified family destination.
Updated on Nov. 10, 2026 in National Parks
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Should Jackson use public money to revitalize the struggling zoo and Livingston Park?
The City of Jackson released a 27-page request for information on October 29 seeking proposals to redevelop Livingston Park and the Jackson Zoo. The zoo has lost visitors and revenue in recent years, and its animal collection has declined to 85 animals.
Why it matters
The zoo has hemorrhaged visitors and revenue in recent years, and the city is looking to reinvigorate the Jackson Zoological Park. Proposals could shape how the city's parks and tourism assets are used for Jackson residents and visitors.
The city's request for information document is 27 pages long, and the zoo's animal collection has fallen from several hundred animals to 85. It is not yet known which concepts or partnership structures the city will pursue.
The players
City of Jackson
The municipal government of Jackson, Mississippi, which issued the request for information and oversees Livingston Park and the Jackson Zoo.
The details
The city is seeking concepts for Livingston Park and the Jackson Zoo as a unified family entertainment, recreation, and tourism destination. Proposed elements of interest include water-based recreation, aerial and adventure features, and new zoo exhibits such as virtual and holographic experiences.
Timeline
October 29, 2026: City released the request for information.
Monday, February 8, 2027: Deadline to respond to the request for information.
Season Trajectory
Cities across the country have turned to requests for information to bring private developers and nonprofits into aging public attractions. Jackson's solicitation for Livingston Park and the zoo follows that pattern as the zoo's collection shrinks.
Residents and visitors who use Livingston Park or the zoo may see changes to access and offerings once a redevelopment plan is chosen. Those planning family outings should check city announcements for updates as proposals move forward.
The takeaway
Public parks and zoos often depend on outside partners to recover from lost attendance and funding. Jackson's solicitation signals that the city is weighing private investment as a path to restore its zoo and park.
What happens next
Responses to the request for information are due Monday, February 8, 2027.
Further reading
Explore more on National Parks to see how other public green spaces are managed and developed.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Wlbt.
Live Poll
Should Jackson use public money to revitalize the struggling zoo and Livingston Park?
