PB-18-06C/PB-18-07C/Essex County/TBZ/Otter Exhibit/Parking Deck/Train Depot

2. Michael Piga, L.A., of French & Parrello was sworn and qualified as a landscape architect. He testified that the proposed improvements to the Otter Exhibit included expanding the existing pool, adding trees and providing additional glass windows for public viewing. No new otters to be added and no new impervious surface. New Parking Garage and Train Depot (PB-18-07C) 3. Darrell Alvarez, PE, RA, Comito Associates PC was sworn and qualified as an expert in engineering and architecture. Mr. Alvarez testified regarding the proposed new parking deck having 516 spaces to eliminate the need for off-site parking for Zoo visitors. He explained the need to move the train tracks to accommodate the deck. The train tracks would be reconfigured but not lengthened and a new decorative train depot would be built to store the trains when not in use. 4. Michael Piga, L.A. testified about the proposed new landscaping but did not have a landscaping plan or tree removal/tree replacement plan. He stated approximately 75 trees would be removed and approximately 125 new trees would be planted. 5. Andrew French, PE, French & Parrello Associates was sworn and qualified as an engineer. He described the proposed new entrance into the Zoo and traffic circulation, however, he did not present a traffic study or report which he said was still unfinished. 6. The Board and public expressed serious concerns about the need to have a traffic study first before designing a solution to the issues which occur on adjacent roads