Tunnel to link zoo, Zoo Lake
Pedestrian access between the Joburg Zoo and Zoo Lake, the two sites of the new eco-precinct, will be made easier thanks to a tunnel that passes below Jan Smuts Avenue.
The tunnel was originally built as a pedestrian access into the zoo, but was walled off as the zoo grew and its infrastructure upgraded.
According to City Parks and Zoo spokesperson Stephen Mogapi, the walled-off tunnel became a storage area.
Contrary to news reports that stated the tunnel was “long-forgotten”, Mogapi said, “The tunnel has been in the zoo and of full knowledge to zoo personnel. [It] was not discovered. We are using it as part of the development of the zoo and Zoo Lake precinct.”
The tunnel will be reinstated and extended as part of a plan that includes a massive upgrade of the two areas.
The upgrade of Zoo Lake will include improved parking facilities, the treatment of storm water in existing siltation ponds which will also be upgraded, tree-planting, a passive recreation and picnic spot, and redefined entrances including sculptural works.
According to the proposed plan, the craft market area will be upgraded and formalised, and will include urban agriculture and environmental education, and the events area will receive a fully-serviced stage arena and terraced steps for seating. A children’s play area will be placed near the events area.
The zoo could receive upgrades to the main entrance, including additional ticket booths, walkways, new seating and picnic features, signage, and gardens.
The plan indicated a playfully-themed park landscape will be created on the Centenary Lawn, and urban agricultural gardens would be planted.
City Parks spokesperson Jenny Moodley said a new parking garage may also be built at the zoo’s main entrance.
