Deadline nears for Liberty State Park development bill

TRENTON, N.J. (AP) -- Gov. Chris Christie has until Thursday to decide if he will take action on a bill that gives a newly established commission power to develop Liberty State Park.

Lawmakers passed the measure last December. It was part of broader legislation aimed at consolidating planning commissions in the Meadowlands region of northern New Jersey.

Christie can sign, veto or conditionally veto the bill. But if he doesn't take any action on the measure within 45 days of its passage in the Legislature, it automatically becomes law.

Language granting the newly established Meadowlands Regional Commission authority was added shortly before final passage.

Park supporters worry it makes development too easy. But a spokesman for the state Environmental Protection Department, which oversees the park, says that's not going to happen.
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