Critics of Newark Power Plant Refuse to Back Down: 'It's Not Over'

A Fight for Clean Air in the Ironbound

The Ironbound Community Corporation (ICC) and local residents have been vocal in their opposition to a proposed fourth fossil fuel power plant in Newark, New Jersey. This project has been labeled as environmental injustice by those who live in the area, which is already one of the most polluted neighborhoods in the state. The campaign against the Passaic Valley Sewerage Commission (PVSC)’s power plant continues, with community members demanding clean and breathable air for all residents.

On August 21, 2025, ICC, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, and other residents gathered in front of PVSC to express their concerns. Despite years of organizing, public testimony, and expert warnings about cheaper, more reliable alternatives to the gas plant, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) approved the construction of the plant in April. This decision has sparked outrage among locals who feel their health and well-being are being ignored.

PVSC’s Board of Commissioners approved the contract for the gas plant in June, despite four years of pleas from the community. This move occurred under Governor Phil Murphy’s administration, which had previously pledged to protect environmental justice communities from further pollution. However, the actions of PVSC have raised questions about the effectiveness of these commitments.

Residents of the Ironbound, many of whom are immigrants, people of color, and low-income families, have long faced the consequences of pollution. They have experienced high rates of asthma, chronic illness, and a general sense of dread when new industrial projects are announced. A letter signed by 136 health care professionals and scientists highlighted the dangers of the proposed plant, stating that the combined impacts of existing pollution and the new plant would pose serious risks to public health.

The environmental justice law, once considered the strongest in the country, has not provided the protection that the Ironbound community needs. The law was meant to safeguard overburdened communities from additional pollution, but it seems to be falling short. Residents are calling for the law to be applied as intended, ensuring that vulnerable populations are not sacrificed for the sake of industrial expansion.

Legal Challenges and Community Support

The ICC, represented by attorneys at Earthjustice, has taken legal action to challenge the approval of the plant. In May, they filed an appeal against NJDEP’s permitting decision, citing a violation of New Jersey’s Environmental Justice Law. A month later, they sued PVSC for ignoring the community’s concerns by approving the fourth gas plant in the Ironbound. These legal efforts aim to prevent any construction while the cases are pending.

Over 1,000 allies have also spoken out against the project, with local leaders such as Mayor Ras Baraka and Senate Majority Leader Teresa Ruiz expressing strong opposition. Councilman Michael Silva emphasized the impact on children, noting that they are getting sicker than anywhere else in America.

Communities across New Jersey, including cities like Newark, Kearny, Hoboken, and others, have shown support for the campaign. Local government bodies such as the Essex County Board of Commissioners and the Bergen League of Municipalities have passed resolutions opposing the plant.

Call to Action

Governor Murphy is urged to take action and enforce the environmental justice law that was championed by the community. Gubernatorial candidates Mikie Sherrill and Jack Ciattarelli are also encouraged to show their commitment to environmental justice by supporting the cause.

The PVSC Board of Commissioners is asked to consider their legacy and whether they will defend the right to clean air and a healthy future for the Ironbound community.

Residents are determined to continue fighting for their rights, lifting the voices of their children, elders, and the entire community. The fight for clean air in the Ironbound is far from over.

How to Get Involved

Join the PVSC Virtual Meeting on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at 12:00 PM ET. Attendees are encouraged to unmute and voice their opposition to the project. The meeting can be accessed via the following link:

Zoom Link for Meeting

Follow the campaign on Instagram at @ironboundenvironmentaljustice for more updates.

The Ironbound Community Corporation collaborates with several organizations, including the Don’t Gas the Meadowlands Coalition, Earthjustice, Food & Water Watch, GreenFaith, New Jersey Environmental Justice Alliance, and the South Ward Environmental Alliance.