The New Jersey Historic Trust has announced the availability of applications for the Preserve New Jersey Historic Preservation Fund grants. The deadline for submitting applications and supporting documents on USB drives is April 18, 2024.
This year, the Trust will provide two types of grants: Historic Site Management grants for preservation planning, municipal, county, and regional planning, and heritage tourism; and Capital Preservation grants for 'bricks and mortar' projects. Eligible applicants include 501c non-profit organizations and units of county, municipal, or state government. Properties must be listed or certified eligible for listing on the New Jersey Register of Historic Places by August 1, 2024, to qualify.
Acting Commissioner Jacquelyn A. Suárez stated, "Investing in the preservation and restoration of historic places is not just a financial commitment; it's a testament to our dedication to safeguarding the roots of our shared cultural heritage." She added that funding these projects allows honoring the stories and character of historic properties for future generations.
Glenn Ceponis, Executive Director of the New Jersey Historic Trust, expressed enthusiasm about the new round of grant applications: "The New Jersey Historic Trust is excited to announce a new round of grant applications for historic preservation projects."
Planning grants can be used for activities such as developing preservation plans or engineering studies. Heritage tourism initiatives may involve visitor readiness surveys or wayfinding. Municipal, county, and regional planning projects can develop Local Historic Preservation Ordinances or architectural surveys. The maximum request for planning grants is $75,000 with a matching requirement.
Capital preservation grants cover construction expenses related to preserving historic properties. There are three levels of capital requests with varying match requirements depending on the level requested.
Applications and guidelines are available on the Trust's website. Applicants are encouraged to read the Grant Guidelines to ensure eligibility. Staff assistance is available via phone or email.
The Preserve New Jersey Historic Preservation Fund was established in 2016 after voters approved dedicating funds from the corporate business tax to provide stable funding for open space, farmland, and historic preservation. Since 1990, over $185 million in matching grants have been awarded throughout New Jersey.
The New Jersey Historic Trust is a nonprofit organization affiliated with the Department of Community Affairs (DCA), governed by a board of trustees dedicated to advancing historic preservation in New Jersey.
For more information on funding programs offered by the New Jersey Historic Trust, visit their official website.
