Votes yes to move forward with redevelopment plan
By Steffen Klenk
On Monday, members of the Upper Township Committee gathered for a public hearing to discuss an ordinance to authorize the redevelopment of the former B.L. England Generating Station. The meeting attracted dozens from across the region, many voicing concern over the land’s potential use as a substation for offshore wind production.
The Redevelopment Plan Amendment, adopted in 2021, calls for the construction of an electrical substation that would transmit power from an offshore wind farm to the grid. The substation would sit on a portion of the land once occupied by the B.L. England power station, and would further replace an existing substation in operation today.
An impassioned crowd, comprised of Upper Township residents and members of surrounding communities, made their voices heard on the issue. More than a dozen public comments were made both in favor and in objection to the amendment. One of the voices on-hand for the meeting included Northfield resident Rich Baehrle, who addressed the potential for negative impacts within the tourism, fishing, and real estate industries. Others, like Sunni Vargas, representing the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters, spoke in favor of the plan, adding it would give life to the facility and space for alternative energy sources.
Newly elected Committeeman Victor Nappen II spoke before the official vote. He noted that while the substation could have benefits for the township, he has called for a moratorium to look at the issue more. “I have come to the conclusion that what’s happening in the ocean is inherently and inextricably linked to us, and we can do something about it (and) pause our efforts.”
A motion to wait until planned congressional hearings on the offshore wind matter was defeated. At the end of the night, the ordinance was adopted by a vote of 3-2. Official meeting information and minutes will be made available via the township website in due time.
The B.L. England Generating Station began operations in 1961 and housed four diesel electric generators. The plant closed officially in March 2019 and is in the process of demolition, with its sole cooling tower having been demolished in September. Further development plans and proposals have yet to be announced.
Photos by Steffen Klenk
Steffen Klenk is a photographer and multimedia journalist who enjoys capturing the eclectic moments of shore life. You may contact Steffen at shorelocalsteffen@gmail.com.
