JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The JEA Catalytic Reactors were successfully imploded Friday morning in Jacksonville.
The blast that brought down the two reactors at the St.Johns River Power Plan is what Bill Martin heard while walking Friday morning.
💥BOOM💥 pic.twitter.com/nHooJjHVyE
According to the homeowner, they were eyesores he could see from his backyard."When we first moved into the neighborhood we didn't like it, that's one negative but it's awesome when it's gone, it looks really nice," he described.
JEA spokesperson Gina Kyle said it isn't about looks, it's about bringing Jacksonville families greener energy.
She explained, “A reduction of about 30% of the overall carbon footprint.”
The implosion of the two units located on New Berlin Road was the next step in permanently decommissioning the St. Johns River Power Park (SJRPP).
PHOTOS: JEA's two reactors come tumbling down in Jacksonville
PREVIOUS IMPLOSIONS | Video: Implosion of Jacksonville old City Hall Annex | Photos: Implosion of the Jacksonville old City Hall Annex
Crew are cleaning up nearly 12,000 cubic yards of concrete and nearly 6,000 tons of steel.
According to Kyle, they’re making way for new development on the site.
She said, “The land will be redeveloped for commercial or industrial use, some of which might be JEA’s use or sold.”
The reactors were Jacksonville’s third implosion in less than a year.
Kyle said the boilers and stack still have to come down, and are set for implosion this summer.
Martin said for the time being he’s enjoying the more picturesque view.
“Have to wait and see what comes,” he said.
WATCH | Chopper, drone and ground video of implosion:
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