Historic New Jersey tire factory set to be demolished

A historic site in Miltown, New Jersey, is set to be demolished, including what city officials claim is the first American Michelin Tire factory, a report by nj.com says. The decision to demolish the site came after an inspection determined it was unsafe.

The site along Main Street and Ford Avenue will be demolished in two parts, the report says. First, the buildings along Ford Avenue will be taken down, working down to the dance studio nearby. The factory, located on Main Street, will be the last demolished building. According to the report, Milltown Borough Council President Ronald Dixon said the process will take months to complete.

According to the report, the Michelin Tire Co. chose Miltown as its first American location in 1907 and built bungalows in the town to improve living conditions for employees. The factory closed in 1930 as an effect of the Great Depression.

A smokestack and water tower are the center of debate in this project, the report says. While residents and borough officials want them to remain standing, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency wants them to be demolished as a part of the project.