FAIR LAWN, N.J. (1010 WINS) — The scheduled implosion of the former Nabisco factory in Bergen County has been scrapped amid mounting community opposition over health and other concerns.
Construction company Greek Development, which purchased the 40-acre site off Route 2018 in Fair Lawn for $146.5 million, announced in a statement that the demolition will continue following community meetings, but the building will not be knocked down.
"After extensive dialogue with local communities and businesses, Greek Development has made the decision not to implode the remaining portion of the Nabisco Tower," David Greek, managing partner, said in a statement. "We will utilize an alternative method of demolition that does not include the use of any explosives."
"Ownership is proceeding to undertake the additional time and expense to ensure the well-being and peace of mind of the surrounding residents," he added.
The Nabisco Tower was an unofficial town landmark that filled the air with the sweet smell of baked cookies for six decades before closing in 2021.
According to WNBC, the latest development broke just hours before a Fair Lawn Planning Board meeting, where town officials said the future of the site would be discussed. Because the Board has power only over the development proposal, not the demolition, that discussion will only apply to what will replace the Nabisco Tower when it officially comes down.
Several hundred people who live nearby also signed a petition asking for more information about the implosion's possible health, safety and environmental effects. According to Greek Development, the safety of its residents and employees has been and continues to be a top priority.
For the construction company, it's another setback. The demolition was halted in April due to asbestos found in the building, CBS 2 reported.
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