MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Memphis Zoo said it has hired a firm to research its popularity amid the ongoing concerns of where people park on its busiest days.
Public Opinion Strategies, a national political and public affairs research firm hired by the zoo, found the zoo is Memphis’ most popular institution, and more than 60 percent of people support its parking needs.
Regarding parking alternatives, there was widespread public support for the use of the general services area and continuing to use the Greensward. Almost three-quarters of those surveyed were against building a new parking garage.
Just Monday, two people were arrested during a protest over the issue at Overton Park.
Police said the protestors were blocking the road leading from the zoo to the grassy area where overflow cars park on the zoo’s busiest days.
People have been parking on the Greensward for decades, but in recent years it has become a source of controversy.