HOUSTON (FOX 26) -
The Houston Zoo will stop offering its "Free First Tuesdays" promotion -- at least through the end of the summer. There are concerns about heavy traffic outside hospitals in the nearby Texas Medical Center.
The zoo cites concerns over access to Ben Taub and Memorial-Hermann Hospitals as prompting the change.
On June 5, more than 12,000 people visited the zoo, causing a massive traffic backup.
"The Houston Zoo has worked diligently to identify opportunities for free and discounted admissions. However, in doing so we cannot adversely impact public safety. We must be a good neighbor to the Houston Parks and Recreation Department and to the Texas Medical Center," said Cannon.
The "Free First Tuesdays," which offers up free admission on the first Tuesday of every month, will resume in September.
