PB 24 20 560 Northfield Avenue Lemur Exhibit Planner Report

December 16, 2024 Page 2 of 4 PB-24-20 – Lemur Exhibit 560 Northfield Avenue – Turtle Back Zoo Block 163, Lot 1 105 Grove Street, Suite 3, Montclair, NJ 07042 ∙ Phone: (973) 954-2677 ∙ www.NishuaneGroup.com Project Summary On property located in the Township’s R-1 (One-Family Dwellings on 80,000 square foot lots) District, the applicant, Essex County proposes to make renovations to the existing Sealion exhibit which will include renovation of the exterior pool area, which will be renovated to house lemur and tortoises. This new space will allow the lemurs to move about and explore in a way that closely mirrors their natural habitat, with expansive climbing tree structures, rocky out crops, and open areas where they can roam and exhibit their natural behaviors. Variances Required: None. This application is before this Board pursuant to the Municipal Land Use Law at N.J.S.A. 40:55D-31a, which requires public agencies expending public funds to refer development proposals to the municipal planning board for its review and recommendations related to the municipal master plan. Project Description The subject site is located within the Turtle Back Zoo compound, which abuts the South Mountain Reservation and is located to the east of the intersection of Northfield Avenue and Pleasant Valley Way. The applicant proposes to make renovations to the existing Sealion exhibit that will include renovation to the exterior pool area, which will be renovated to house lemur and tortoises. This exhibit is located to the east of the main entry to the Zoo, to the north of the existing Touch Tank Exhibit. The lemur area will be enclosed with a black oxidized stainless steel netting system. The existing observation areas will allow guests to enjoy the playful antics of the lemurs. Visitors will be able to watch them interact with the environment, whether they are leaping from faux vine to faux vine, lounging in the faux Madagascar themed tree, or engaging with other members of their troop. Tortoises will also be incorporated into this exhibit, offering visitors a chance to get up close at the lower portion of the exhibit. Guests will be able to watch them explore their naturalistic habitat and learn about the important role tortoises play in their ecosystems from educational signage proposed around the exhibit area. The existing faux thatch canopy area with raised planters will

habitat and learn about the important role tortoises play in their ecosystems from educational signage proposed around the exhibit area. The existing faux thatch canopy area with raised planters will enhance the exhibit’s aesthetic, while providing a relaxing space for visitors to rest and take in the scene. Ornamental benches and trash receptacles will strategically be placed to keep the area clean and comfortable for zoo-goers.