Parts of the former Nabisco plant at 22-11 Route 208 in Fair Lawn have been demolished to clear the way for a proposed 644,075-square-foot industrial development. — Courtesy: Greek Development
By Joshua Burd
Greek Development has called off its plan to implode the remaining piece of the former Nabisco factory complex in Fair Lawn, the site of a planned ground-up distribution center, following several months of concerns by residents about the potential environmental impact.
The developer on Monday issued the following statement:
“After extensive dialogue with local communities and businesses, Greek Development has made the decision not to implode the remaining portion of the Nabisco Tower. We will utilize an alternative method of demolition that does not include the use of any explosives. Ownership is proceeding to undertake the additional time and expense to ensure the well-being and peace of mind of the surrounding residents.”
East Brunswick-based Greek, which plans to build more than 644,000 square feet of modern industrial space at the Route 208 property, announced last month that it would postpone the remaining demolition, citing “delays in ongoing efforts with local and state agencies to fulfill all regulatory requirements and make all necessary pre-implosion arrangements.” Prior to that announcement, hundreds of nearby homeowners signed a petition calling for additional testing throughout the process, raising concerns that tearing down the tower at the site could release hazardous materials into the air, soil or water.
Both Greek and Fair Lawn officials have said that all asbestos is being removed from the complex before demolition, while all state and federal requirements are being followed, according to multiple reports.
Greek earlier this year filed plans to build the new logistics facility at the property, at the junction of Route 208 and McBride Avenue, after acquiring it in late 2021 for nearly $147 million. Nabisco parent company Mondelēz Global closed the landmark plant earlier that year, following more than six decades of operation, giving way to the redevelopment plan.
Demolition at the 39-acre site started around late January. The developer has said it aims to start construction on the new warehouse this summer, pending local approval.
Greek postpones implosion at ex-Nabisco complex in Fair Lawn
