Hunterdon County awards $1.29 million for open space projects in Raritan and Tewksbury townships
HUNTERDON COUNTY, N.J. — The Hunterdon County Board of Commissioners has approved more than $1.29 million in Open Space Acquisition Assistance Grants to support land preservation projects in Raritan and Tewksbury townships, officials announced at their August 5 meeting.
The grants, recommended by the Parks & Open Space Advisory Committee, will help permanently protect over 118 acres of land across both municipalities. The Hunterdon Land Trust will receive $69,100 to acquire the 13-acre Ponzini property in Raritan Township. Meanwhile, the Tewksbury Land Trust will receive $1,222,500 toward the purchase of the 105-acre Stavola property, which officials described as both ecologically and historically significant.
“These preservation efforts not only safeguard our scenic open spaces and natural areas but also reflect our commitment to responsible land stewardship that makes Hunterdon County a great place to live,” said Commissioner Jeff Kuhl, liaison to Planning and Land Use. “The Board extends their appreciation to both land trusts and the Parks & Open Space Advisory Committee for their role in making these important land acquisitions happen.”
The Open Space Acquisition Assistance Grant Program covers up to 50% of the purchase price for qualified nonprofits and municipalities working to conserve open space. The Ponzini and Stavola projects were reviewed, scored, and recommended for funding at the Parks & Open Space Advisory Committee’s July 28 meeting.
“These acquisitions represent strategic wins for the county,” Kuhl added. “The Ponzini property enhances our ability to protect smaller but valuable green spaces, while the Stavola property is one of the largest preservation efforts in recent years, ensuring lasting public benefit and environmental protection.”
More information about the Open Space Trust Fund and land preservation programs is available on the county’s Planning & Land Use website.
