Essex County is taking bids from vendors to develop a family-friendly, lake-view restaurant at South Mountain Reservation. The site at the corner of Northfield Avenue and Pleasant Valley Way in West Orange will also have a miniature golf course and surface parking lot. It will be adjacent to Turtle Back Zoo and the Richard J. Codey Arena (formerly known as South Mountain Arena).
“The county-owned property at the intersection of Northfield Avenue and Pleasant Valley Way has tremendous potential because of its prime location in South Mountain Reservation and its easy access from major highways. Our proposal will expand recreation opportunities and provide family-friendly and affordable entertainment facilities that compliment Turtle Back Zoo and Codey Arena,” DiVincenzo said. “Developing the corner property will further transform our complex into a recreation destination,” he added.
According to the county, the development plan for the former archery field includes an African continent-themed miniature golf course, 12,000-square-foot, family-oriented restaurant and about 300 parking spaces. Construction on the mini golf course and parking lot is scheduled to begin this spring.
If you are interested in developing and operating the restaurant you can get copies of the Request for Information by visiting the Essex County web site and clicking on the link to the Purchasing Portal or by directly visiting the Essex County Purchasing Portal. Proposals are due by Monday, February 1 at 3 p.m.
