HUNTERDON COUNTY, N.J. — The Hunterdon County Board of County Commissioners approved nearly $1 million in grants to support historic preservation and restoration projects across the county during its meeting Tuesday, Oct. 6.
The commissioners approved a total of $954,250 in Historic Preservation and Municipal Open Space grants to protect historic, cultural and educational resources in Readington, Holland and Tewksbury townships, as well as the historic Dvoor Farm in Raritan Township.
The funding includes three Historic Preservation Grants totaling $851,250 and one Municipal Open Space Grant totaling $103,000.
Hunterdon County Commissioner Jeff Kuhl, liaison to the Department of Planning and Land Use, said preserving historic structures plays an important role in maintaining the county’s character and identity.
“Hunterdon County’s historic buildings and landmarks are an important part of the character of our communities and help tell the story of generations who came before us,” Kuhl said. “By investing in these structures, we are not only preserving our history but also ensuring that the places that help make Hunterdon County special remain part of our landscape for generations to come.”
The approved grants include:
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$276,250 to Readington Township for restoration of the ruins at Taylor’s Mill.
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$75,000 to Holland Township for replacement and restoration of the roof and gutters at the Riegel Ridge Grandstands.
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$500,000 to the Hunterdon County Land Trust for the final phase of restoration of the Dvoor Farm Bank Barn and North Ell in Raritan Township.
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$103,000 to Tewksbury Township for repairs or replacement of the roof and windows at the Whittemore House.
The $500,000 grant awarded to the Hunterdon County Land Trust represents the largest single county grant contribution to the organization.
County officials said the funding will allow the final phase of the long-planned restoration of the historic Dvoor Farm Bank Barn and North Ell to move forward.
The project builds on years of preservation work at the property and is intended to ensure the landmark barn remains a prominent and functional part of one of Hunterdon County’s most recognizable historic landscapes.
The grants are funded through the Hunterdon County Trust for Open Space, Recreation, Farmland and Historic Preservation, which supports projects aimed at protecting the county’s natural, agricultural, recreational and historic resources.
Through partnerships with municipalities and preservation organizations, the county uses trust fund resources to support long-term preservation efforts and help communities maintain historic buildings and landscapes.
County officials said the latest grants reflect Hunterdon County’s continued commitment to protecting historic landmarks and community institutions while preserving the area’s heritage for future generations.
