EDISON, NJ – This Earth Day, tensions flared at Middlesex College as students, faculty, and local residents staged a protest against a proposed plan to install 14 artificial turf soccer fields and a 5000 seat stadium. The controversial project has drawn criticism for its potential environmental impact, cost, and alleged lack of transparency in the decision-making process.
Protesters gathered outside the college’s main entrance, holding signs with slogans like “Why the secrecy on CIO plan?”, “Save the trees”, and “No plastic fields.” Concerns center around the environmental hazards of artificial turf, which often contains crumb rubber and plastics that can leach chemicals into the surrounding environment. Protestors also argue that the project would destroy valuable green space and mature trees within the park.
“Edison Park is a vital resource for our community,” said Emily Rodriguez, a Middlesex College student and envoromentalist. “Replacing natural grass with plastic fields is an environmental disaster and a disservice to future generations.”
Another point of contention is the project’s estimated $200 million price tag. Protesters carried signs that read “200 million destroy campus and park,” questioning the allocation of funds when the college and surrounding community have other pressing needs.
The protest highlights the growing debate surrounding artificial turf fields, with communities across the country weighing their convenience against potential health and environmental risks. As Earth Day serves as a reminder of environmental stewardship, the controversy in Edison Park underscores the need for open dialogue and sustainable solutions in community development.
