Caribbean Gardens

The Naples Zoo is a much loved attraction in Naples, Florida. But the historic zoo and botanical gardens faced closure when the land’s owner decided to sell the 165-acre Caribbean Gardens parcel on which they were situated. County voters overwhelmingly approved a bond referendum to acquire the land, but with rising property values, more money was needed. In 2005, at the county’s request, TPL stepped in and was able to craft a solution that would bring the land within the county’s budget by splitting off two parcels for private sale–one to the Conservancy of Southwest Florida. In addition to the 50 acres housing the zoo and gardens, the county protected 80 acres that will eventually be used as a “Central Park” for fast-growing Naples.