Town CrierWest Orange, New Jersey
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Minutes · Aug 3, 2016

August 3, 2016

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Mr. Eben stated he was concerned with the physical area outside of the zoo; he acknowledged the new directional/informational signage. He asked if there could be improvements to the existing signage that was used to direct visitors to the overflow parking areas. He asked if Mr. Spencer had been involved with the recent improvements at the intersection of Northfield Avenue/Pleasant Valley Way/Cherry Lane. He stated there were no pedestrian connections to the western part of the SMRC along Northfield Avenue; he opined the County should be “lobbied” for a western pedestrian connection. Messrs. Spencer and Fleder said they would advise the County of Mr. Eben’s concerns. Mr. Fleder said the timing of the traffic light at the intersection had been adjusted; it should help alleviate some of the traffic issues. Other improvements to the intersection were almost complete. Mr. Fleder said he would advise the County of the Board’s opinion that pedestrian connectivity to the western part of the property and the overflow parking areas would be a great improvement. Mr. Eben requested that Mr. Dwyer be copied on any correspondence; Vice Chairman Bagoff asked that Chairman Weston also be included. Chairman Bagoff reminded the Board that questions should be limited to the application presented; however, he did suggest the Board to include in its approval the recommendation to create pedestrian access from the property further to the west. Councilwoman McCartney stated the Township and the County had both adopted a “Complete Streets” policy; she reiterated the Board’s opinion that sidewalks were important. The Public Advocate had no questions for Mr. Spencer. Robert Raskhes, 35 Oakcrest Road, asked if entertaining for “Brew at the Zoo” take place at the new exhibit; would “Pokémon-Go” characters be located in the exhibit. Mr. Spencer answered in the negative for both; he did offer that the zoo would be holding a “Pokémon-Go” event, but all activity would be in public spaces. The applicant had no further testimony; the Board deliberated on the Application. Mr. Klein opined the temporary parking signage was necessary at times; Mr. Fleder agreed it was necessary; he offered he drove by the area regularly and thought the signage aesthetic could be improved. Vice Chairman Bagoff stated he had recently visited the site; he stated the County had done much to enhance the

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ed he drove by the area regularly and thought the signage aesthetic could be improved. Vice Chairman Bagoff stated he had recently visited the site; he stated the County had done much to enhance the area. Public Comment: Robert Rashkes, 35 Oakcrest Road. In response to inquiry from Vice Chairman Bagoff, Mr. Fleder stated the exhibit would not create more amplified sounds to the surrounding area. Conditions: 1. The County replace the current temporary directional signage for additional parking;

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