New Law Seeks to Curb New Jersey’s Warehouse Sprawl Epidemic

New Law Seeks to Curb New Jersey's Warehouse Sprawl Epidemic

TRENTON, NJ — Assemblyman Joe Danielsen (LD-17) has introduced a bill aimed at addressing the escalating issue of warehouse sprawl across New Jersey. Assembly bill A5802 proposes a $1 million pilot program within the Office of Planning Advocacy (OPA) to financially support municipalities in revising zoning ordinances related to warehouse development and conducting warehouse impact studies.

The bill seeks to reinforce the existing warehouse guidance from OPA, empowering municipalities to responsibly manage warehouse siting. A key provision of the legislation is the creation of model zoning ordinances by OPA, offering various regulatory options for warehouse location. These models aim to help communities prevent adverse effects such as increased traffic, infrastructure strain, stormwater runoff, and public health concerns.

Assemblyman Danielsen highlighted the gap in current OPA capabilities, noting the lack of resources for municipalities to effectively revise plans and ordinances in response to the surge in warehouse development. This pilot program is designed to equip municipalities with the necessary tools to adapt land use policies and mitigate potential environmental and community impacts.

Katie Perrone of New Jersey LCV, Zoe Baldwin of the Regional Plan Association, Tom Gilbert of the New Jersey Conservation Foundation, and Sabrina Rodriguez of New Jersey Future have expressed support for the legislation. Their endorsements emphasize the importance of responsible warehouse siting in preserving air quality, public health, farmland, open spaces, and overall community well-being.

The bill marks a significant step towards addressing warehouse sprawl in New Jersey, with a focus on sustainable and community-friendly development.