HUNTERDON COUNTY, N.J. – Hunterdon County has approved a major infrastructure improvement project at its Everittstown Garage, marking the final step in the county’s transition from underground to above-ground fuel storage tanks.
The $450,000 project, formally approved by the Board of County Commissioners at its Oct. 7 meeting, will be carried out by Independence Constructors, Inc. of Bridgewater. The work includes removing existing underground fuel storage tanks and installing new, environmentally safer above-ground tanks. Additional equipment for the system will be supplied by E.O. Habhegger Co., Inc. of Hammonton.
Director John E. Lanza said the project will enhance safety, reliability, and efficiency for a fueling system used across the county.
“This investment ensures not only the safety and reliability of our fueling infrastructure but also strengthens a critical shared service relied upon by first responders, school districts, and municipalities throughout Hunterdon County,” Lanza said. “Everittstown plays a key role in keeping our essential vehicles moving — from school buses to rescue squads. This upgrade means faster, safer, and more efficient fuel access for everyone who depends on it.”
The transition is part of a long-term county effort to improve fuel infrastructure safety, reduce environmental risk, and better serve its own fleet and 34 municipalities and volunteer organizations that rely on county fueling stations. Those partners include full school bus fleets in South Hunterdon and Flemington-Raritan, along with more than 20 emergency service agencies, including fire, police, and EMS units.
On average, Hunterdon County dispenses more than 400,000 gallons of fuel annually to its own fleet and partner agencies. Fuel is provided at cost, with a minimal service fee to cover operating expenses. Customers are billed monthly, eliminating on-site payment needs and streamlining operations for participating entities.
“This project reflects this Board’s focus to our ‘New Era of Partnership’ by expanding and improving shared services across Hunterdon County,” Lanza added. “By investing in infrastructure that supports not just our own fleet, but dozens of local government partners and emergency responders, we’re delivering meaningful cost savings and operational efficiency county-wide.”
The Everittstown Garage serves as the primary fueling hub for northwest Hunterdon, supplying fuel to Pattenburg Rescue, Kingwood Fire, Frenchtown Borough, Quakertown Fire, and the Flemington Police Department, as well as supporting the county’s LINK bus service routes.
The project follows the successful 2024 upgrade of fuel tanks at the county’s Route 12 complex, bringing Hunterdon County into full compliance with modern fuel storage standards. Above-ground tanks offer advantages including reduced environmental risk, easier maintenance, and improved safety.
All county fueling stations have also recently received modernized self-service fueling pedestals, improving reliability and convenience, with 24/7 technical assistance available.
Work at the Everittstown Garage is expected to begin later this year and be completed by early 2026.
