Enrichment Of Local Arts And The Environment
Don't let them pave paradise!
Join us to protect the farmland behind the old Phillipsburg Mall.
Pohatcong is allowing its portion of the old mall property to be included in neighboring Lopatcong's Highlands Redevelopment area application. Without Pohatcong's participation, the application could fail, helping preserve the 40-acre farm and preventing sewer expansion into protected Highlands Conservation land.
Although Pohatcong officials have stated they are not directly involved in the project, the township's participation in the redevelopment application may play an important role in its approval. Residents are concerned about potential impacts, including flooding, truck traffic, noise, threats to wildlife, pollution, and more.
Expert Commentary
The letter below from Elliot Ruga, Policy and Communications Director of the New Jersey Highlands Coalition, explains why the proposed development conflicts with the goals of the Highlands Act and Regional Master Plan. It discusses the loss of active farmland, smart growth principles, and concerns about the Highlands Council staff recommendation.
"This is one of the last remaining natural spaces in our community. It provides important habitat and supports a healthy ecosystem. It also helps absorb stormwater before it reaches streams and roads. With flooding already being a serious issue along the Lopatcong Creek, it's hard not to worry that replacing this land with warehouses, roads, and parking lots could make those problems even worse.
We already have several warehouses in the area, including some that are abandoned, while opportunities for recreation and open space are becoming harder to find. This land has the potential to offer so much more to our community than another industrial development."