Exelon Energy may opt to close its Oyster Creek nuclear plant rather than make state-mandated environmental improvements.

The Department of Environmental Protection wants Exelon to build cooling towers to protect fish and other wildlife. The estimated cost to build the cooling towers is between $50 million and $300 million.

In a filing with the federal government, Exelon says the rules being considered by the state might cost enough that a shutdown might be more cost-productive.

The economic impact could be devastating as the plant provides the area with thousands of jobs and millions of tax dollars. The economical and environmental implications have residents divided.

"Economically to the town, I think it would be devastating," says Bob Hawk, of Manahawkin. "I don't think people would be able to afford to live here."

"I'd rather the plant not be here," says Christina Guarnieri, of Bayville. "It's scary."