CLINTON TOWNSIP, N.J. (Hunterdon County) — Hunterdon County commissioners recently toured the Hunterdon County Arboretum to review progress on a $5.7 million renovation project designed to modernize one of the county’s most well-known public facilities.
Commissioner Director John E. Lanza, Deputy Director Jeff Kuhl and Commissioner Susan J. Soloway received an update on the project, which will renovate and enhance the Arboretum, the longtime headquarters of the Hunterdon County park system.
The Arboretum has served county residents for more than 70 years as an environmental education center, trailhead, event venue and gathering place for community programs.
Construction includes upgraded classrooms and meeting spaces, renovated interiors, a new roof, modern heating and cooling systems, accessibility improvements, expanded parking areas and site landscaping. County officials said the improvements will provide a modern facility for residents, schools, community organizations and visitors.
“The Hunterdon County Arboretum has been a destination for generations of residents, and this renovation represents an important investment in one of our most valued public resources,” said Commissioner Director John E. Lanza. “By modernizing this facility, we are ensuring the Arboretum continues to serve as a place where people can learn, explore nature, gather as a community, and enjoy our outstanding park system for many years to come.”
The Arboretum serves as the headquarters for the county park system, which welcomes more than 300,000 visitors each year.
County officials said the renovation will expand educational opportunities by adding classroom and conference space for environmental education programs, workshops, lectures, school visits and community meetings. The upgraded facility will also support expanded virtual learning opportunities.
“Our parks are among Hunterdon County’s greatest assets, and the Arboretum is truly the centerpiece of that system,” said Deputy Director Jeff Kuhl. “These improvements will provide residents with enhanced educational opportunities, more accessible public spaces, and a facility that will continue serving families, schools, and community organizations for generations.”
The project also includes Americans with Disabilities Act improvements intended to make the building more accessible while improving energy efficiency and sustainability.
“As someone who has long supported our parks and preservation of our open spaces, it is exciting to see this project taking shape,” said Commissioner Susan J. Soloway. “The renovated Arboretum will inspire future generations to appreciate the natural beauty of Hunterdon County while providing outstanding opportunities for learning, recreation, and community engagement.”
The Arboretum renovation is one of several ongoing county parks projects. Other recent and planned improvements include the opening of a barrier-free playground at Deer Path Park, restoration work at Echo Hill Pond and construction of a new all-abilities playground at the South County Fairgrounds.
County officials said the investments reflect Hunterdon County’s continued commitment to improving parks, expanding recreational opportunities, supporting environmental education and preserving natural resources for future generations.
