Town CrierWest Orange, New Jersey
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Minutes · Mar 2, 2011

March 2, 2011

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33 Oakcrest Road, West Orange stated that she lives close by and asked if a traffic study was done and, if so, what were the results. Mr. Piga said that there was a study done and she could go to the County Public Works building on Bloomfield Avenue and look at it there. County Executive Divicenzo also stated that all traffic concerns are being addressed at the present and county patrol cars are there 24 hours. Robert Raske, 35 Oakcrest Road, West Orange stated that the last time trees came down, there was a blackout in his neighborhood and will this happen again. Mr. Piga stated that there is an arborist that will come in to determine the strength of the trees and they will not endanger the trees or plants. Mr. Raske asked if the power lines that go into the facility will be relocated; Mr, Piga stated no that they will stay where they are. Mr. Raske asked if the adventure course will have a separate admission and separate parking; Mr. Piga stated that it will have a separate adinission but no separate parking. Mr, Raske asked if there were any traffic changes proposed in this application or any acoustical studies; Mr. Piga stated no traffic changes and the acoustical studies are not part of this application. Victoria Owens, 6 Korwel Court, West Orange, suggested that the blueprints for this project be published in local newspapers so that people can comment on them, Director Borg stated that the Township cannot make them do that. Chairman Weston stated that it could possibly be a friendly request. Ms, Owens wanted to know where the funds are coming from for this project. County Executive Divincenzo said from green acre funding, open space and any revenues that come in from the exhibits. They are projecting approximately 300-350 thousand dollars a year from this project. Justin Mihalik, 31 Park Lane, Essex Fells commented that Mr. Eben’s concerns were valid regarding the restrooms and asked what criteria was used to determine there were enough restrooms. Mr. Piga stated they are increasing the capacity of what is there now and there are not any restrooms in that location where the new exhibits are being built, which is on top of the mountain, Mr. Eben followed up with saying that facilities have to be designed according to the population; it shows 4 stalls for women and 2 stalls/2urinals for men. There is a building code and the restrooms must be designed

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d up with saying that facilities have to be designed according to the population; it shows 4 stalls for women and 2 stalls/2urinals for men. There is a building code and the restrooms must be designed by an architect for that reason, Chairman Weston mentioned that at some point this will be looked at so it meets code. Michele Sutton, who previously spoke, stated that, if this was a courtesy hearing, when was the original meeting for this project brought before the public. County Divincenzo stated that they had a press conference in November of last year explaining their plans. He also stated that the public can go to the next Freeholders meeting to express any further concerns about this project. Suzanne Robinson, 34 Dogwood Drive, commented about the Northfield Avenue screening also, Chairman Weston closed the public portion of the meeting, Director Borg requested a resolution, from the Board attorney, documenting that this application was heard. Chairman Weston made recommendations that the area would be adequately screened and substantially set back from Northfield Avenue and Berm landscaped and to conduct a study, by a licensed architect, regarding the code requirements and fixtures of the restroom facilities. Councilwoman McCartney expressed a concern about signage for the traffic plan. Chairman Weston recommended that the signage for the traffic plan be reviewed again and way-finding signage provided. Public advocate, Mr. Grossman, commented that the development of the zoo and mini golf course is a very extensive project and suggested that they should send a Township liaison to the county planning mectings. Councilwoman McCartney stated that the Township’s building inspector goes to these meetings.

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