TRENTON – The New Jersey Historic Trust (the Trust) has opened the application period for the Preserve New Jersey Historic Preservation Fund grants. Eligible non-profit organizations, as well as county, municipal, and state government units, can now apply for a portion of the $10 million in funding available. The deadline for applications, including supporting documents on USB drives, is April 18, 2024.
This year’s grant program includes Historic Site Management grants, covering preservation planning, municipal, county, regional planning, and heritage tourism. Additionally, Capital Preservation grants are available for construction-related preservation projects. To qualify, properties must be listed or eligible for listing on the New Jersey Register of Historic Places by August 1, 2024.
Acting Commissioner Jacquelyn A. Suárez of the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) emphasized the importance of these grants in preserving New Jersey’s cultural heritage. Executive Director Glenn Ceponis of the New Jersey Historic Trust also expressed excitement about assisting in the preservation of the state’s historic properties.
Planning grants, capped at $75,000, may fund preservation plans, engineering studies, archaeological assessments, heritage tourism initiatives, and more. A $1 match for every $3 requested is required for these grants.
Capital preservation grants are available for actual construction work and associated professional fees. There are three levels of capital requests, with varying maximum amounts and matching fund requirements. Level I grants have a maximum of $150,000, Level II up to $750,000, and Level III – Multiphase grants range from $500,000 to $750,000 per phase. These grants support larger, more complex projects and may provide up to three years of funding.
Applicants can find guidelines and applications on the Trust’s website. The Trust staff is available for inquiries at 609-984-0473 or via email at njht@dca.nj.gov.
The Preserve New Jersey Historic Preservation Fund, established by 2016 legislation following voter approval, continues the legacy of previous historic preservation funding initiatives in the state. Since 1990, over $185 million in matching grants have been awarded for historic preservation across New Jersey.
The New Jersey Historic Trust, an affiliate of the DCA, is dedicated to advancing historic preservation in the state. It operates under a 15-member board of trustees and offers various programs to support and educate about historic preservation.
For more information about the New Jersey Historic Trust and its funding programs, visit their website. The DCA also provides a wide range of services, including community planning, affordable housing, disaster recovery, and privacy protection.