Gloucester’s historic courthouse was nearly filled to capacity last week as county residents were not shy about making their opinions known regarding the plan for a state park on the Timberneck property.

Following lengthy debate and public comment, the Gloucester County Planning Commission made a recommendation last Thursday to approve removal of certain proffers related to the former housing development, which constitutes a rezoning.

While some residents of Cedar Bush and Timberneck creeks were in support of the park, the majority of attendees who spoke were staunchly opposed to the plan that would turn the approximately 650-acre site over to the state in 2019.

Reasons for opposition were varied, but common themes included the inadequacy of roads to accommodate boat trailers and RVs, the danger of the creeks’ unmarked channels in shallow water, and numerous environmental questions.

The hearing began with a description of the site plan by planning and zoning staff. Phas...