Noise, Ammonia and Lighting Part of Salem Power Plant Talks

But before board members reviewed conditions, several city residents raised concerns about the plant, slated to replace the current coal-fired facility. 

Concerns included excessive noise, the transportation of ammonia to and from the plant and the possibility of traffic tie-ups while the plant is being redeveloped.

A good amount of time was spent discussing the possibility that the plant would have its stack illuminated with decorative lighting.

Some people there were for it and some were against it. 

The main outlines of the project

The old coal-burning facility will be all but razed, then replaced on a much smaller scale by a gas-fired power plant. Much of the 65-acre plot would be available for uses other than the plant, which will only take up only 22 acres.

Toward the Blaney Street side, docks capable of accepting large cruise ships are envisioned. Between the plant and the adjoining sewerage facility, industrial uses are expected.

The new plant will have one smokestack in place of the current facility's three. And that stack would be less than half the height (230 feet) of the tallest existing one (492 feet).

What are your concerns? 

Let us know in the comments section below.