Opponents of a 2.6 million-square-foot warehouse complex proposed by Jaindl Land Co. in White Township demonstrate in 2020 at Routes 519 and 46.Tim Wynkoop | lehighvalleylive.com contributor
Environmental groups are soliciting help as they prepare to fight a proposed warehouse development along the Delaware River.
For three years, Jaindl Land Co. has pitched the controversial project, called the 519 Commerce Center, in Warren County’s White Township. Two warehouses totaling 2.6 million square feet are proposed on 580 acres on Foul Rift Road between Route 519 and the river.
The project will come up for a hearing with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection next week.
First, on Wednesday, a virtual meeting to discuss environmental concerns is planned by the Delaware Riverkeepers Network, the New Jersey Highlands Coalition and the local opposition group Citizens for Sustainable Development. The Zoom session is scheduled for 6 p.m. (Information on how to access the meeting is available on the Riverkeepers website.)
The DEP will hold a virtual public hearing on a portion of the project at 10 a.m. Aug. 5, where it will solicit input from residents and other stakeholders. Written comments are accepted through Aug. 20 via email at wqmp.publiccomments@dep.nj.gov or by mailing the DEP at PO Box 420, Mail Code 501-02A, 501 East State St., Trenton, N.J. 08625.
A rendering shows two proposed warehouses in White Township. The development has received criticism from many local residents and the Delaware Riverkeeper Network.Courtesy image
Among the questions already raised by the Riverkeeper Network: How will tens of thousands of gallons of sewer runoff affect local water quality? Will it exacerbate sinkholes? Will stormwater and fuel find its way into the Delaware River?
A Jaindl attorney did not return requests for comment this week. Representatives have previously said the project will adhere to all local, state and federal environmental requirements, and will set aside 219 acres for agriculture and 10 acres along the river for recreation.
Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to lehighvalleylive.com.
Steve Novak may be reached at snovak@lehighvalleylive.com.
Note to readers: if you purchase something through one of our affiliate links we may earn a commission.
Registration on or use of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement, Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement, and Your California Privacy Rights (User Agreement updated 1/1/21. Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement updated 7/1/2022).
© 2022 Advance Local Media LLC. All rights reserved (About Us). The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Advance Local.
Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site.