PB 25 08_Planning Courtesy Review_Turtle Back Zoo

Memorandum Page 4 of 5 236 BROAD STREET, RED BANK, NJ 07701 • TEL 732.741.2900 • FAX 732.741.2929 • MAIL@HGAPA.COM • www.HGAPA.com Project Overview The applicant is proposing to construct a new timber barn within the existing “African Adventure” exhibit area, which is located in the southwestern corner of the Turtle Back Zoo. The overall footprint of the barn will measure approximately 5,000 square feet (52’ x 96’). In addition to the new barn, impervious improvements are proposed to form connections to the existing penguin habitat and emergency access/maintenance driveway. The conceptual site plan notes that the access between this roadway and the existing greenhouse area will be realigned, which extends the scope of the application onto Lot 13. The existing visitor viewing pavilion will not be altered as a result of the improvements. To the south of the proposed barn will be a new off-exhibit area, which will contain one (1) of the two new animal paddocks, as well as new refuse containers. Each exterior paddock measures approximately 800 square feet in area. The off-exhibit area will create more space for vehicle access and for loading animals into the barn. Additionally, new 4-foot-tall rustic post and rail fencing will redefine the boundaries of the exhibit area for the animals. A series of newly constructed African reed grass shade canopies, as well as landscaping to resemble African species will be placed throughout the exhibit area. The proposed barn will be one story, and includes six (6) stables, two (2) open arenas for the animals, distinct keeper and tamer zones, feeding rooms, and mechanical space, and storage space. A new access point to the barn and will be created for the staff along the eastern section of the exhibit, via a new staircase. This staircase will also provide access to the second new outdoor paddock for the animals. The provided rendering articulates the proposed wood barn structure with a pitched roof, wood accents, and dark finishes around the fenestration. The conceptual site plan also denotes an underground detention and storm drainage basins, but it is unclear if these exist or are proposed based on the current application. Further, whether the modular block retaining wall exists or is proposed is also unclear. Zoning The subject property is in the R-1 Zoning District. As a public capital project pursuant to N.J.S.A.

on. Further, whether the modular block retaining wall exists or is proposed is also unclear. Zoning The subject property is in the R-1 Zoning District. As a public capital project pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40:55D- 31(a), the applicant is before the Planning Board for a courtesy review for review and recommendation in conjunction with the Township’s Master Plan.