By: Richard L. Smith
Governor Mikie Sherrill and Attorney General Jennifer Davenport announced that New Jersey officials, alongside the Township of Roxbury, have asked a federal court to halt plans by federal immigration authorities to convert a vacant industrial warehouse into a large-scale detention facility.
According to a statement released by state officials, the request seeks a preliminary injunction against the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, which are planning to repurpose the site along Route 46 into a detention center capable of housing up to 1,500 detainees and employing approximately 1,000 staff members.
State officials said emergency court intervention is necessary after DHS indicated construction activity could begin as early as late May, including work in areas protected under a state-issued easement.
The lawsuit argues the project would significantly strain local infrastructure and public resources in an area not zoned for large-scale residential use.
Officials also contend federal agencies failed to properly consult with state and local authorities or conduct required environmental impact assessments.
According to the filing, the warehouse currently lacks the infrastructure needed to support such a facility, including sufficient water supply and sewage capacity.
Officials warn that converting the building could increase water demand and wastewater output more than fifteenfold, raising concerns about potential sewage overflows impacting nearby land and waterways, including Lake Musconetcong and Lake Hopatcong.
The complaint further notes that increased water usage could affect local residents by reducing water pressure, impacting fire suppression capabilities, and placing stress on groundwater systems.
Traffic safety is also cited as a concern.
The proposed facility sits near the Route 46 and Interstate 80 interchange—an area that has seen numerous crashes in recent years. Officials say the addition of hundreds of daily employee commutes could worsen congestion and increase risks along the corridor.
State leaders argue the federal government’s actions violate multiple laws, including the Administrative Procedure Act, the National Environmental Policy Act, and the Intergovernmental Cooperation Act.
The lawsuit, filed March 20, seeks both declaratory and injunctive relief.
Governor Sherrill said the state is taking action to protect residents from what she described as an ill-conceived plan that could negatively impact public safety and local resources, while Attorney General Davenport emphasized the need for swift court action before irreversible damage occurs.
The matter now heads to federal court, where a judge will determine whether to temporarily block the project while the broader legal challenge proceeds.