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Zoning board approves PSE&G plan to modernize Bennett Lane substation, with security and landscaping
Summary
Public Service Electric & Gas received zoning approval to modernize the Bennett Lane substation, replacing aging equipment, adding a transformer and breakers, erecting taller security walls and a monopole, and adding stormwater and landscape mitigation; construction is scheduled to begin in 2027 with in‑service targeted for 2029.
The Franklin Township Zoning Board approved a major site plan and variances Thursday for Public Service Electric & Gas to modernize the Bennett Lane substation.
PSE&G representatives told the board the station, constructed in the late 1960s and upgraded previously, serves roughly 17,500 customers in the area and contains equipment that has reached or exceeded its useful life. The company plans to replace aging 13 kV switchgear and a control house, add an additional 230→69 kV transformer and new 69 kV breaker positions to expand redundancy, and replace an existing lattice tower with a single monopole approximately 161.4 feet tall.
Company witnesses described new physical‑security features, including anti‑cut/anti‑climb fencing, 26‑ft and 32‑ft precast isolation walls around critical equipment, and upgraded site lighting (down‑lighting for normal operation and uplighting for emergency use). The plan includes a bioretention basin and other stormwater measures, a temporary contractor laydown area on an adjacent lot to be restored after construction, and a landscape package of roughly 54 new trees (about 50 evergreen) and approximately 135 shrubs.
PSE&G said construction was proposed to start in the second quarter of 2027 with in‑service targeted for 2029 and site cleanup and restoration completed by mid‑2030. Company witnesses said the project is designed to avoid customer outages during the work.
After technical testimony from the project manager and engineers and review of municipal reports, a board member moved to approve ZBA‑26003 subject to compliance with staff reports; the motion passed on a roll call with all members voting yes.
The board noted the public‑utility exemptions in local rules for security fencing and scenic corridor requirements; staff reports and applicant testimony will govern final details of lighting, landscape placement and post‑construction restoration of the temporary laydown area.
