The Akron Zoo is taking advantage of a towpath connector trail installed last year by encouraging cyclists to leave the path and visit the park.
Zoo officials Wednesday unveiled its new bike shelter, which includes lockers and even a repair station with an air pump and some tools.
It’s part of the Ohio & Erie Canalway Coalition’s iTowpath project. Cyclists can exit the Towpath Trail on Bartges Street, ride down Raymond Street and turn right on Euclid Avenue to reach the zoo entrance.
The bike shelter is in the main parking lot next to the Metro bus stop. The parking lot is also marked to indicate where bikes should travel.
Zoo officials said they are promoting cycling as a way to reduce fossil fuel use and carbon emissions that contribute to climate change.
The bike shelter was designed by Environmental Design Group and constructed by A Crano Excavating Inc. Construction was paid for by the zoo with help from some grants.
The connector trail completed last year is one mile in length and marked with signage and animal prints. It was funded by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation.
The zoo is open 361 days a year from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information visit www.akronzoo.org.