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by Avery Nape
Residents of Monroe County, particularly in the Poconos region, are voicing strong opposition to a proposed warehouse project along Route 115. Their concerns center on the potential threat to local waterways, specifically Tunkhannock Creek, which is classified as an Exceptional Value waterway under the federal Clean Water Act. The residents are urging the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to deny a permit for the project, citing the need to protect these sensitive waterways and preserve the area's natural beauty, which is crucial for tourism.
The proposed warehouse, planned by Route 115 Associates, LLC, would cover 800,000 square feet and involve subdividing a 98-acre forested area into six lots. Residents argue that the region already has enough large warehouses, which are detracting from its scenic views and potentially harming local ecosystems. They emphasize that while development is important for progress, it must be balanced with environmental protection.
Jennifer Lannaco from Tunkhannock Township expressed her frustration, stating, "The Poconos is not the land of warehouses," and appealing to authorities to reject the proposal. Dave Waldron, another resident, encouraged community members to attend meetings and voice their opposition, saying, "We do not want these in our backyards." The DEP continues to accept written feedback on the proposal until March 17, as residents and environmental advocates push for a halt to the project to safeguard the area's natural resources.
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