Washington, D.C. – New York Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today met with Bronx Zoo President Dr. Steven Sanderson to talk about the important role the Bronx Zoo plays in New York’s economy.
The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), which manages the Bronx Zoo, employs more than 4,000 workers worldwide and generates $390 million in revenue for New York’s economy each year. More than 4 million tourists visit WCS facilities each year in New York, supporting local businesses in the Bronx, Brooklyn and across New York City.
“My top priority is creating good-paying jobs for New York and getting our economy turned around,” Senator Gillibrand said. “We need to harness all the talent and attractions of our state, put New Yorkers to work, and put our state on a path of strong economic growth. The Bronx Zoo is a treasure for families and an economic engine for our economy. I hope to take Henry and Theo there very soon.”
The Bronx Zoo and New York Aquarium employ approximately 1,200 workers in New York. Each year, they train 2,000 public school teachers and attract nearly 2 million student visitors – including 70,000 who attend formal education programs.
Zoos, botanical gardens and aquariums across New York attract 12 million tourists each year – providing an economic engine that will play an important role in our economic recovery and New York’s long term economic growth.