Mediation began on March 8^th between the Overton Park Conservancy and the Memphis Zoo regarding green space and overflow parking. Both groups remain optimistic they can come to some kind of agreement regarding the use of the space, but there are concerns about a future legal challenge if the process does not result in a long-term compromise between the two parties.

The green space is currently being used for overflow parking for the zoo. Parking the zoo says is necessary, an opinion that appears to be backed up by zoo attendance. On a recent weekend, parked cars occupied approximately a third of the green space for overflow use. This also included picnic space zoo attendees use to dine before or after their entrance or exit from the zoo.

Protesters also spent time at the zoo over the weekend, directing people turning into the park to use free, on-street parking in the neighborhood instead of the green space parking. There were about 100 people present during the protests and a few sporadic sit-ins that occurred during the protest, but no arrests were made. One protester expressed frustration that so much of the area was just being used for empty cars. He acknowledged the understanding nature of the police officers in the area, allowing those who wished to protest to do so peacefully and without interruption.

The first round of mediation will address the temporary court orders allowing the zoo to use the space for parking. Subsequent mediations will look for long-term solutions that will hopefully satisfy everyone involved.