As a resident of Orange County, NY, I am deeply concerned about the plans to build multiple large-scale warehouses and distribution centers across our region, particularly in Waywayanda, Middletown, Minisink and Walkill. At least 7 are planned that range in size from 200,000 to 900,000 square feet (think 90+ truck loading docks for each and 24/7 operation as they are Distribution centers). Many have already been built around our county, and the plans include expanding Route 6, 17 and connectors to 84 to accommodate the huge increase in truck traffic.

These developments pose a significant threat to the health, safety, and daily lives of all residents - it's personal, it's immediate, and it's urgent. These are set to be voted on by community boards in the coming weeks and months.

The proposal to continue constructing large warehousing facilities would divert critical utilities, increase traffic congestion, strain our emergency resources, all while inevitably affecting our air quality. Moreover, the quality of life that we cherish in Orange County could very well be compromised. Each resident would bear the brunt of this change, and it's our collective responsibility to challenge it. Once these plans are approved it’s too late.

Contrary to what the developers might want us to believe, these warehouses won't serve us. Many have no tenants, many in our area already sit empty. Studies show that warehousing complexes significantly increase pollution levels in surrounding areas, with regions hosting large distribution centers recording a 16% increase in fine particulate matter – a pollutant linked to multiple health issues (New Jersey Department of Health, 2018). This impact on air quality alone should be sufficient cause for concern. We already have the CPV power plant that poses risk.

Additionally, reports from other States with this type of warehouse growth suggest that these developments will exacerbate traffic congestion, extending commute times. Response time of emergency vehicles will be slowed. Simultaneously, the rerouting of utilities such as water and power to serve new commercial facilities will surely put a strain on our public resources, potentially leaving some areas underserviced.

This is not a future we want for our home. It's time to make a stand for the place we love. Let's stop the overdevelopment of Orange County and stand up for our community, our environment, and our quality of life. Join us in urging our local officials to reconsider these plans. Sign this petition today and let them know that we value our community more than commercial development.