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Commission flags pipeline safety and access concerns over Onyx warehouse proposal ahead of planning-board hearing
Summary
Commissioners reported a March 30 planning-board hearing on an Onyx warehouse proposal near Old New Brunswick Road and raised safety concerns about nearby Buckeye pipelines, setback distances, emergency response access and truck access limitations.
Members of the Franklin Township Environmental Commission reported on March 3 that the planning board will hold a public meeting on March 30 at the Board of Education building to further consider Onyx's proposal to construct a warehouse near Old New Brunswick Road and New Brunswick Road.
Commission speakers raised safety and access concerns because two Buckeye pipelines (carrying diesel and gasoline in the commission's account of the discussion) run through or near the site. The application relocated the proposed building from about 20 feet from the pipeline to 48 feet; the commission noted the applicable setback standard cited in the discussion is 100 feet. A commission member said Buckeye has previously indicated displeasure with the proposal.
Commission comments emphasized that the applicant's new grading and cover approach would add three feet of topside fill above the pipeline alignments. The commission's report noted that any future pipeline repairs would require deeper excavation and shoring inside trenches, a complication the pipeline operator dislikes because of additional construction complexity and risk.
Speakers also related a recent pipeline leak in neighboring Bucks County, describing a leak of aviation fuel and associated house buyouts as an example that concerned residents. The commission member who referenced that incident said it shaped their view of pipeline risk and the potential consequences for nearby neighborhoods.
Commissioners flagged other practical constraints in the application record: Old New Brunswick Road includes a private portion that requires an easement for heavy truck access, and Brunswick Road has a posted weight limit that would complicate bringing tractor-trailers to the site. The commission noted the application materials reflected truck-turning and access concerns that have arisen in public hearings.
Commissioners urged residents to consult planning-board application materials posted on the Franklin Township website (under Planning Board -> Application Materials). The commission did not take a formal vote; members asked that the commission's observations be shared with the planning board and the public.
