The mountain bike park on the old jungle safari theme park site would be the state's first. Watch video
WEST MILFORD -- A North Jersey theme park where animals once roamed free may soon become the state's first mountain bike park.
The Department of Environmental Protection announced earlier this month that they are seeking applications for an operator to manage the state's first park for mountain bike riders at the old Jungle Habitat property, according to a release.
Warner Brothers operated the drive-through wildlife safari theme park during the 1970's. It allowed visitors to get up close and personal with rhinos, lions, elephants and other exotic animals.
"As a mountain bike park, the Jungle Habitat site has the potential to allow visitors to tap into nostalgia and a unique piece of New Jersey history while enjoying healthy outdoors recreation," reads the release.
The 800-acre site shuttered in 1976 and was purchased by the state in 1998, which cleared out trails for hiking and biking. Currently, there are 11 miles of single track trails at the site, according to the state.
The agreement calls for the operator to maintain paid trails for beginners through experienced riders, while preserving public and free trails currently at the site.
Last year, the town council floated an idea to turn the site into an off-road park for all-terrain vehicles. A $5,500 feasibility study for the site was approved but later canceled.
"I have had ongoing open dialogue with the DEP regarding the old Jungle Habitat site, which is currently underutilized," said West Milford Mayor Bettina Bieri, who was against the ATV plan. "The goal is to offer more non-motorized recreational opportunities, which could increase tourism and enhance awareness of our beautiful West Milford community, while preserving both the environment and the quality of life for neighboring residents."
The move comes as the cash-strapped Garden State looks for new ways to generate funds at state parks.
Under the agreement, the winning operator would enter into a 10-year lease and pay the state $12,000 in annual rent plus a minimum 8 percent of revenue. The operator is encouraged to open food and alcohol concession stands as well as hold revenue-generating events such as races.
The winning bidder would also have to abide by current preservation rules while developing the site.
The site is very popular with mountain bikers and has a 4.5 out of five-star rating on the mountain bike trail site singletracks.com.
Fausto Giovanny Pinto may be reached at fpinto@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @FGPreporting. Find NJ.com on Facebook.