Noise From Stouts Creek Dredging Draws Ire From Residents

LACEY, NJ — Residents of Lacey are not pleased with the ongoing Stouts Creek dredging project, citing noise issues, particularly with regard to the airboats being used.

Township officials said they had received "many resident complaints" regarding the project. Read more: Stouts Creek Dredging Starts: What Lacey, Berkeley Boaters Should Know

However, as the project is being down at the state level and not the municipal level, it is outside the scope of the town's local noise ordinance and enforcement authority.

"That said, your concerns were not taken lightly," township officials said. "We have communicated directly with the State’s project contact, who is aware of the noise issues caused primarily by the airboats. In response, they have advised us that they are limiting airboat use and reducing travel across the site as much as possible to help minimize disruption."

Though the project is not under municipal control, local officials said they keep monitoring the situation and remain in contact with state officials to ensure community concerns are addressed.

"We value your patience and understanding as this work continues, and we will share any additional updates we receive from the State regarding efforts to mitigate noise," officials said. "This project will address many issues of concern for the shoaling of our channels and appreciate the efforts of the State of NJ to invest our tax dollars in this much-needed project."