Senate President Bob Johnson told reporters there will be a day when the current mid-town area of Little Rock will no longer be useful for a zoo or park. Johnson believes the area would be ideal for a research corridor.

“Nobody wants to take away a zoo, but if we’re going to have one, how about this novel idea. How about one that we’re proud of,” said Johnson. “All these pro park people, when is the last time they had a picnic out there? When is the last time some of these greenies have caught fish out there on the game and fish stock pond. The fact of the matter is this is an economic opportunity.”

Johnson said he is not proposing any legislation to that effect, but believes the issue is worth discussion.