At Holmdel’s March 2 Zoning Board public hearing, representatives from New Jersey Natural Gas (NJNG) presented their application to put a natural gas regulator station in front of a solar farm on Holmdel Road across the street from Hop Brook Lane.
This regulator station would be placed just a few feet away from a road that has a 50-mph speed limit. Thirteen variances are being requested, including an additional use in zoning to allow for it, decreasing by more than 75 percent its buffer from nearby residences, and relief from height requirements to allow for three 15-foot-high heat-emission stacks.
Most importantly, NJNG requested relief from the required environmental-impact studies that would determine this project’s potential effects on nearby residents.
The purpose of this regulator station is to reduce natural gas pressure in the high-pressure line that originates in Jamesburg, turns north onto Holmdel Road and travels eventually into Hazlet. This facility would be a principal station that connects to other lines in adjoining towns.
While NJNG’s need for a regulator station is not being questioned, this proposed location close to homes and farmland and a high-speed road is problematic. It poses safety, noise and environmental concerns for the nearby families as well as the crops that are grown there.
Come to the continued Zoning Board public hearing for this application at 8 p.m. on May 18 at Town Hall to voice your concern about this project.
Regina Criscione
Board Member
Citizens for Informed Land Use (CILU)
Holmdel