Conaway Bill to Fund Grants for Historic Preservation Projects Now Law

(7th Legislative District) - Legislation sponsored by Assemblyman Herb Conaway M.D. appropriating $10.8 million to the New Jersey Historic Trust to fund grants for historic preservation projects was signed into law Monday.

The law (A-4058) appropriates $10.2 million from the 2009 Historic Preservation Fund and the 2007 Historic Preservation Fund for grants for certain historic preservation projects, and $600,000 from the 2009 Historic Preservation Fund for associated administrative expenses.

"New Jersey has an enviable history that should be preserved and invested in for future generations," said Conaway (D-Burlington/Camden).  "Preservation creates a sense of identity, and contributions to our economy as heritage tourism draws visitors looking for unique historical and cultural travel experiences."

Of the $10.2 million, $9.3 million will be used for capital preservation grants, and $945,996 will be used for historic site management grants.

The historic site management grants support non-construction activities such as long-term planning of operations and programs including building assessments, accessibility, landscape plans, and creating educational campaigns to increase public awareness.

Historic site management grants for projects in Burlington and Camden counties include:

• $46,875 to the Mercer County Park Commission for the Abbott Farm National Historic Landmark District in Burlington and Mercer counties.
• $50,000 to the Westmont Theatre in Haddon Township
• $30,690 to the Westampton Twp Historical Society for the Rancocas Lyceum in Westampton Township
• $20,000 to the Alice Paul Institute for Destination Paulsdale:  Revealing the Hidden Gem in Mount Laurel Township.