Opposition to Concrete Recycling Project Remains

Despite dropping its request for an asphalt plant, R.E. Pierson Construction Inc.’s plan to build a concrete plant and recycling facility in Dennisville, N.J., is still causing controversy.

Pierson was before Dennis Township’s zoning board July 25 seeking use variances to complete its project on an existing 170-acre gravel pit.

Over a dozen attended the hearing, the third for this application, which lasted over three hours.

When it included an asphalt plant, opposition to the project was immense. Nearly 200 people crowded into Township Hall to voice concerns over the proposal.

Despite the dwindling attendance at the meetings, neighbors of the proposed project still have worries. Residents were concerned with possible pollution from the plant as well as increased noise and truck traffic on the already busy county road.

Public opposition prompted Dennis Township Committee to introduce an ordinance banning asphalt plants in the township and saw Pierson drop the asphalt aspect from its plans.

Pierson’s attorney James Pickering continued to lead testimony from the company’s professionals, who say the project won’t negatively impact the community.

Robert Sandman, an attorney representing a campground adjacent to the site, continued to cross-examine Pierson’s expert witnesses stressing the project’s downsides.

No conclusion was made by the zoning board at the July 25 hearing. Testimony will continue at the Sept. 26 meeting. Cape May County (New Jersey) Herald