CM Wong Calls for Pause on Middle Village BESS Permits

Cites environmental concerns and proximity to schools in request to city agencies.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 8:22pm

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A serene, photorealistic painting depicting a lone battery storage unit or electrical substation in soft, warm light, conveying a sense of quiet contemplation about the complex issues surrounding the placement of new energy infrastructure.A community leader's call to pause permits for a new battery storage project raises concerns about balancing clean energy goals with neighborhood impact.NYC Today

New York City Council Member Phil Wong has sent a letter to the Department of Buildings (DOB) and Fire Department (FDNY) urging them to place a hold on permits for a proposed Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project in Middle Village, Queens. Wong cited a previously identified environmental issue at the site, as well as the project's proximity to a local school and other community facilities.

Why it matters

BESS projects are a key part of New York's renewable energy transition, but their placement near residential areas and sensitive sites like schools has raised concerns about potential environmental and safety risks. Wong's request highlights the need to balance clean energy goals with community impact.

The details

In his letter, Council Member Wong pointed to a recognized environmental condition at the proposed BESS site, as well as existing property violations. He also noted the project's close proximity to PS/IS 128, a local school and daycare facility. Wong is asking the DOB and FDNY to pause permit approvals until these issues can be fully addressed.

  • On March 20, 2026, Council Member Wong sent the letter to the DOB and FDNY.

The players

Phil Wong

A New York City Council Member representing the Middle Village neighborhood.

New York City Department of Buildings (DOB)

The city agency responsible for issuing permits for construction and development projects.

New York City Fire Department (FDNY)

The city's fire department, which also reviews permits for projects that could pose fire safety risks.

PS/IS 128

A local public school and daycare facility located near the proposed BESS project site.

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What they’re saying

“We must not allow projects to move forward that could potentially put our community's children and families at risk.”

— Phil Wong, New York City Council Member

What’s next

The DOB and FDNY will review Council Member Wong's request and determine whether to pause the BESS project permits pending further environmental and safety assessments.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between New York's renewable energy goals and the need to address community concerns about the placement of new energy infrastructure projects.