Memphis Zoo officials announced on Friday that a plan to expand zoo parking by building a parking deck, the Prentiss Lot, was “no longer financially feasible.”
Therefore, the press release reads, the city will proceed with the previous plan of reconstruction of the main parking lot at the zoo, to increase parking by more than 400 spaces. While construction is underway, overflow parking might be again shifted to the Greensward in Overton Park, which will likely reignite a hot-button issue.
“The construction could begin as early as January 2022 and be finished by the spring,” officials said in a press release. “As a result, overflow parking on the Greensward may be required during the busy holiday season when there is increased attendance especially during special events, such as Zoo Boo, Zootoberfest, and Zoo Lights. The Memphis Zoo will continue to be mindful of the neighboring community during this time and thanks you all for your patience until this project is complete.”
