(04/13/06) SEA BRIGHT ? Some state leaders and environmentalists are throwing their weight behind efforts to block a proposed gas terminal off the coast of Sea Bright.

New York-based Atlantic Sea Island Group would like to construct an artificial island 19 miles off the coast of Sea Bright. The proposed 65-acre island would be home to a liquid natural gas terminal, or LNG plant. Representatives of Atlantic Sea Island Group say the LNG plant would help lessen energy concerns in the area.

However, critics of the plan say it?s a disaster waiting to happen. Representative Frank Pallone (D-NJ) says a hurricane or strong storm could result in a major toxic spill near the island. Environmentalists claim the plan goes against all earlier efforts designed to clean up the ocean. Pallone is introducing legislation that would block all industrial uses of the ocean.