Buffalo Zoo responds to criticism over price hikes

Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - The Buffalo Zoo is pushing back on criticism of their new admission hike.

Erie County Legislator Chris Greene noted with WBEN on Thursday the Legislature agreed to increase its annual support of the zoo by 17.7%, but that didn't stop the zoo from raising rates.

"I was shocked to see 45% increases for general admission, for seniors, for kids," said Greene.

He says the Legislature knew of the Zoo's plan to introduce a new program called the "Zoo for All", which makes it easier for low-income families to go to the Zoo. However, they weren't expecting other areas to be affected by the program.

Greene says the Buffalo Zoo is already more expensive than other area Zoos like Toronto and Rochester.

Buffalo Zoo President and CEO Lisa Smith responded later Thursday afternoon, saying the Zoo generates 80% of its own budget.

"Raising prices is hard and unavoidable," said Smith with WBEN. "The Zoo has operated the zoo with a fiscal responsibility, keeping that top of mind, and managed to stay within our means to the best of our ability."

Smith says rising inflation and the increasing costs of goods has also contributed to the price increase.