Rensselaer County Democrats Stands with Residents in Opposing Natural Gas Transfer Station Near Spring Avenue

In Minority Press Releases

November 3, 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact: Office of the Rensselaer County Legislature

Subject: Rensselaer County Legislature Opposes Proposed National Grid Natural Gas Transfer Station in Brunswick

Rensselaer County Democrats Stands with Residents in Opposing Natural Gas Transfer Station Near Spring Avenue

Rensselaer County, NY — In a decisive move to protect the health, safety, and quality of life of its residents, the Rensselaer County Democratic Legislators have sponsored a resolution formally opposing the construction of a proposed National Grid natural gas transfer station on Spring Avenue in Brunswick, NY.

The proposed facility, slated for development on approximately 11–12 acres near Pleasantview Avenue, Menemsha Lane, and Creek Road, has raised significant concerns among community members and elected officials. The site lies within a residential area, prompting fears about the proximity of industrial operations to homes, schools, and recreational spaces.

“This Legislature has a long-standing commitment to safeguarding our neighborhoods,” said Minority Leader, Peter Grimm. “The proposed transfer station poses unacceptable risks to air quality, noise levels, traffic safety, and overall public well-being.”

Key concerns outlined in the resolution include:

  • The presence of up to 32 compressed natural gas (CNG) tankers on-site, each storing gas at extremely high pressures (3,000–3,600 PSIG), which introduces potential safety hazards.
  • Continuous lighting and operational noise that would disrupt the peace of nearby residential communities.
  • Increased heavy truck traffic routed through the City of Troy, including Ferry Street, Congress Street, and Pawling Avenue — roads not designed for industrial vehicle volume and known for pedestrian activity and limited infrastructure.
  • Lack of clarity and regulatory guarantees regarding the facility’s operational limits and potential future expansion.

“Although National Grid has indicated the facility would operate primarily during rare extreme cold events — estimated at two to three times per decade — the tankers would remain on-site from fall through spring, raising questions about the necessity and permanence of the installation,” stated Deputy Minority Leader Nina Nichols.

The resolution calls on the Brunswick Planning Board and other relevant authorities to deny the special use permit and site plan approval. It also urges National Grid to explore alternative locations and technologies that do not compromise the character and safety of the community.

“The people of Troy and Brunswick, once again, are to suffer the consequences of Brunswick’s continued irresponsible planning,” said Legislator Ken Zalewski.  “The Town of Brunswick has too long a history of putting expansion and development ahead of the concerns of its residents.”

Furthermore, the Legislature demands increased transparency, public hearings, and comprehensive environmental impact assessments before any further action is taken.

The Legislature encourages all residents to attend the forum and share their perspectives. Public comment will begin at 6:00 PM, and speakers are asked to sign up to speak before the meeting and will be heard on a first-come, first-served basis.

Public Forum Details:

  • What: Rensselaer County Legislature Public Forum
  • When: Wednesday, November 5, 2025 at 6:00 PM
  • Where: RC Office Building, Legislative Chambers, 99 Troy Road, East Greenbush, NY
  • Topic: Resolution Opposing National Grid Transfer Station on Spring Avenue in Brunswick, NY