NRC Observes Final Shutdown Of Indian Point Unit 2

CORTLANDT, NY — A nuclear power plant has been operating at Indian Point for almost 60 years. After years of battle with anti-nuclear activists, environmental groups and finally the state government, the plant's owner agreed to close.

Unit 2 was shut down April 30. Unit 3 will be shut down in 2021. (Unit 1 shut down in 1974.)

The plant's closure has a huge impact on the region's economy, including the loss of 1,000 jobs and the ripple effects on local businesses. The Verplanck fire department loses 64 percent of its budget. The Hendrick Hudson school district loses one-third of its annual revenues. The village of Buchanan, town of Cortlandt and Westchester County also will take big hits to their budgets.

SEE ALSO: As Indian Point 2 Shuts Down, Local Officials Take Stock

Entergy wants to sell the plant to Holtec International for the purpose of decommissioning and clean-up (which can take up to 60 years under federal rules.) However, some neighbors, activists and officials distrust Holtec and the plan. SEE: Holtec's Plan To Demolish Indian Point Generates Questions.