# Jackson, Mississippi Seeks Zoo Concepts

The City of Jackson plans to issue a request for information seeking developer concepts for enhancements or a possible reimagining of the Jackson Zoo. Mayor John Horhn said responses could help inform decisions about the facility’s future. This is an early market-research opportunity—not a confirmed solicitation or contract award—and recent USDA inspection findings and the city’s corrective-action plan may influence future requirements.

- Developers and firms with relevant zoo, visitor-attraction, or facility-improvement experience can prepare capability information for the planned RFI; the city has not announced a release date or formal procurement requirements.
- Responses may help the city assess whether and how to pursue changes at the zoo, but firms should distinguish this information-gathering stage from a funded project or commitment to award.
- Interested organizations should follow City of Jackson announcements for the RFI and review the referenced inspection findings and corrective-action plan as potential context for future requirements.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Construction & Infrastructure
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** October 06, 2026

### Government Entities
- City of Jackson
- U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

### Key Quotes
> If we cannot get the kind of support, and people do not have the interest in doing something exciting at the zoo, then we may have to make some hard decisions.
> — John Horhn, Mayor of Jackson

### Sources
- [Should the Jackson Zoo close? The mayor says a soon-to-be-released RFI could answer that](https://www.wlbt.com/2026/10/06/should-jackson-zoo-close-mayor-says-soon-to-be-released-rfi-could-answer-that) - WLBT