MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Memphis Zoo and the Overton Park Conservancy agreed to two measures that would add approximately 325 parking spaces for visitors.
Both sides have reportedly agreed to reconfigure the zoo parking lot in order to provide anywhere from 50 to 125 parking spaces.
In addition, on-street parking will be implemented along North Parkway, which would add 200 parking spaces.
During the mediation process, the Memphis Zoological Society, the Overton Park Conservancy, the Mayor’s Office and the City Council have met to discuss ways to fix the parking issue.
Memphis Zoo patrons have been parking on the Greensward for about 30 years, Mayor Strickland said.
Both sides were given until 2019 to find a solution, but were brought together in January to find common ground.
At that time, both agreed to allow overflow parking on the Greensward until mediation brought about a long-term solution, Strickland said.
“I understand the mediation process seems slow. I understand it’s hard to follow. But the items I shared above are movement. They represent clear progress. While we are not at the finish line, we are much closer than we were in January. And I just wanted to share that with you today,” the mayor said. “In the meantime, I hope you enjoy Overton Park and the Memphis Zoo — two great assets in the core of a great city — this very weekend.”
Mediation remains ongoing.
