Amarillo’s Parks and Recreation Advisory Board tackled two major topics this week—both of them tied closely to the future identity of the city’s recreation landscape. In a wide-ranging meeting, board members examined proposals that could reshape the Amarillo Zoo, determine the long-term outlook for Wonderland Amusement Park, and open new opportunities at John Stiff Park. The discussions reflected a larger theme: how Amarillo can modernize its attractions while preserving the character residents value.
The most in-depth portion of the meeting centered on the Amarillo Zoo and a proposal from the Wild West Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. The Center presented its vision for taking over management of the zoo through a lease agreement with the city. The organization outlined how it would guide the zoo forward, emphasizing updated practices, stronger educational outreach, and improved animal care standards.
Board members spent considerable time questioning elements of the proposal, particularly the projected funding model and how staffing structures could change under new leadership. One concern raised involved the possibility of reduced employee insurance coverage—an issue the board took seriously given its potential effect on worker retention and morale.
Despite these concerns, the board ultimately determined that the partnership was worth advancing. Members felt the proposal offered a forward-looking strategy for revitalizing the zoo, improving operations, and enhancing the visitor experience. Board member Bob Altman summarized this optimism clearly, saying, “We see a lot of opportunity and a lot of possibility, and we want our zoo to flourish. We see this as a new avenue, a new direction for our zoo.”
For many in attendance, Altman’s remarks captured the sentiment of a board ready to shift from maintaining the status quo to embracing a new model that could add energy and vision to the zoo’s future.
Wild West Wildlife Rehabilitation Center Director Stephanie Brady echoed this forward-looking mindset. According to Brady, the organization plans to take time to thoroughly review and refine the agreement to ensure both sides are satisfied with the terms. “The next steps are going over the agreement we received and fine-tuning it. We want to make sure the city is happy, and we as an organization are happy with the decisions. Then, of course, we’ll focus on training with the current zoo team and working on retention.”
Brady’s comments emphasized collaboration and continuity—two issues that became central to the day’s discussion. Ensuring that current employees feel supported and equipped for any transition will likely be a key factor in the success of the potential partnership.
Beyond zoo operations, the board also examined the future of Wonderland, the long-running amusement park that sits on land leased from the city. The park’s owners have previously signaled interest in selling the business, and the board expressed hope that a sale will move forward soon.
Altman again voiced optimism, noting that a new buyer could bring investment and improvements. “We’re all for that because we think a new buyer will bring in new money and make needed improvements. Wonderland is a great asset to our city and brings a lot of tourism.”
For Amarillo families and visitors alike, Wonderland has been a nostalgic and economic fixture for decades. The board’s comments suggest that city officials recognize the park’s value not only as an amusement destination but as a tourism driver that fills hotels, restaurants, and local shops. A new owner with fresh capital could reinvigorate the park and help secure its future.
The meeting didn’t stop there. Board members also weighed the possibility of developing unused land in John Stiff Park, particularly acreage near 45th Street. While the idea of adding commercial development to a park might raise eyebrows, the board appeared focused on ensuring any changes would complement—not detract from—the park’s character. As Altman noted, development should enhance the space and increase its ability to draw more visitors.
Taken together, the discussions make one thing clear: Amarillo is at a pivotal moment in shaping its public recreation assets. Whether through new partnerships, potential property sales, or thoughtfully planned development, city leaders are assessing how to maintain financial sustainability while improving amenities.
The Amarillo City Council is expected to review the board’s recommendations at its next meeting on December 9. If council members share the board’s enthusiasm, the city could soon begin a new chapter for the zoo, Wonderland Park, and John Stiff Park—one that blends tradition with forward-thinking investment.
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