TRENTON – A measure sponsored by Senator John A. Girgenti, which would appropriate roughly $15.6 million from the Garden State Historic Preservation Trust Fund to the New Jersey Historic Trust to be used for repairs and renovations to historic sites around New Jersey was approved today by the Senate Wagering, Tourism and Historic Preservation Committee.
“New Jersey is a historically rich and culturally diverse state, and this funding would enhance the current efforts to allow us to remain a tourist destination,” said Senator Girgenti, D-Bergen and Passaic. “The funding appropriated through this legislation would help to maintain New Jersey’s strong heritage, while strengthening local communities.”
Senator Girgenti’s bill, S-2770, would appropriate the funding to help renovate and repair local historic churches, libraries, schools, community centers and museums.
“I am pleased to note that within my district, Paterson’s Great Falls has just been designated as a historic site. This designation allows the Falls, and other attractions to receive the funding necessary to make renovations and upgrades, which will help to increase local tourism revenue. It is important that these historic sites receive upgrades necessary to enable them to be around for future generations,” said Senator Girgenti.
The legislation would also allocate funds for other local sites including Rogers Locomotive Works’ storage building and the Dey Mansion.
This measure now heads to the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee for consideration.
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