New Jersey regulators have approved a measure allowing a natural gas pipeline to run through the federally protected Pinelands preserve.
The Pinelands Commission voted Friday morning on the fate of the 22-mile South Jersey Gas pipeline proposed to run from Maurice River Township to the B.L. England generating station in Upper Township.
Supporters say the pipeline will increase energy reliability, while environmentalists fear damage to the pristine Pinelands preserve.
Commission Executive Director Nancy Wittenberg has recommended the project be allowed to move forward, saying it meets the requirements of the commission’s Comprehensive Management Plan.