PB-24-18 County of Essex/ Turtle Back Zoo Block: 163 Lot: 1

. Michael Piga, LLA, of Franch & Parrello, testified on behalf of the County. Essex County seeks to make renovations to an existing deck pathway system for the Australian Outback Exhibit at the Turtle Back Zoo, specifically, the County seeks to widen the existing five (5’) foot boardwalk/deck pathway system to ten (10’) feet to create an ADA compliant ramp, a small observation deck area, a concrete observation area and connections to different existing active areas. . The proposed ADA amenities will include ornamental benches, ornamental trash receptacles and shade canopies. . The Planning Board’s statutory duty pursuant to the Municipal Land Use Law N.J.S.A.40:55D-31 for an application of this type is for “review and recommendation” in conjunction with the West Orange Master Plan. . The Township’s 2019 Master Plan Update provides an overview of changes to the Zoo and adjacent County facilities since 2010, as well as notes it continued increases in annual attendance. A concern was raised in the Master Plan Update about maintaining a balance between preservation and recreation in South Mountain Reservation. While acknowledging the benefits to West Orange of the County’s investment in this facility, the following is noted on page 61 of the December 2019 Master Plan Update: [T]here are concerns about the amount of development in the Reservation, and the transformation of formerly open areas into active recreation space and zoo facilities. The Township should continue to work with Essex County to allow for appropriate development without overwhelming what makes the South Mountain Reservation a special place.