Dear Zoo Train Supporter,
This is a big moment.
On February 3, the Metro Council gave the green light to move forward — in partnership with the City of Portland and the Friends of the Washington Park and Zoo Railway— on next steps to restore the Rose Garden Loop.
For the first time in years, Metro and the City are aligned.
And that didn’t happen by accident.
With more than 40,000 signatures, this community sent a powerful message:
Bring back the Zoo Train.
Your voice mattered. Your signature mattered. You helped move this forward.
“Restoration aligns with the goals of both Metro and the City of Portland—enhancing visitor experience, mobility, and activation of Washington Park.”
— Mayor Keith Wilson
Local media are calling it “one step closer to a possible comeback.”
We call it momentum.
What Happens Next
We’re entering the feasibility phase — the critical step that will determine how restoration of the Rose Garden Loop can move forward.
That means:
✔️ Updated geotechnical evaluation
✔️ Completion of the feasibility study
✔️ Active coordination with Metro, the City, and the Zoo
This is how real progress happens.
And We’re Not Waiting
Volunteers are already out on the tracks — clearing debris, improving visibility, and caring for this historic railway.
This is community in action.
This is history worth saving.
This is forward motion.
Stay With Us
Sign up for updates:
https://www.fwpzr.org/contact
Follow the movement:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FWPZR.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fwpzr
Share this update. Invite others to join. Keep the momentum building.
We are closer than we’ve been in years.
And you helped make that happen.
With gratitude and determination,
Friends of the Washington Park & Zoo Railway: