Fair Lawn Nabisco Tower Implosion Nixed, Developer Says

FAIR LAWN, NJ — After conversing with local communities and businesses, the proprietor of the former Nabisco site has called off the implosion of the tower.

Following months of "extensive dialogue," Greek Development has made the decision not to implode the remaining portion of the Nabisco property, the East Brunswick developer said in a statement.

"We will utilize an alternative method of demolition that does not include the use of any explosives," said Greek Development, which bought the property last fall for over $146 million.

The decision comes just five days after local residents held a town hall in neighboring Glen Rock, identifying concerns of demolition dust, and asbestos-containing materials onsite that require remediation. The goal of the town hall, organizers said, was to ensure the building is safely demolished, "brick by brick."

Greek Development added: "Ownership is proceeding to undertake the additional time and expense to ensure the wellbeing and peace of mind of the surrounding residents."

District 38 officials Sen. Joe Lagana, and Assembly representatives Chris Tully and Lisa Swain said they were pleased with the developer's decision — which, they noted, had come after months of their advocating on behalf of constituents regarding environmental and public health concerns.

"This incredible news is a testament to the power of a passionate citizenry," the officials said, "and we want to thank all the residents who have voiced their concerns as well as Greek Development for listening and factoring these concerns into their decision-making process."

Plans to implode the tower at the now-closed cookie factory had been postponed twice, first due to purported permit delays and again when asbestos was found in the building, according to previous reporting.

Contractor Sessler Wrecking was to implode the structure after structural deficiencies were identified that would have "put (the firm) at risk under mechanical demolition, those reports said.

Mechanical demolition of the factory began in January.