Historic Preservation Grant Program

The Historic Preservation Trust Fund Program, administered by the Bergen County Department of Parks through the Historic Preservation Advisory Board, offers financial assistance for the protection and enhancement of historic resources across Bergen County, New Jersey. This local funding initiative is designed to support capital preservation projects for historically significant properties owned by the County, its municipalities, and eligible nonprofit organizations. The program aligns with Bergen County’s broader commitment to conserving its architectural and cultural heritage and ensuring that historical sites remain accessible and relevant for future generations. Eligible projects under the Historic Preservation Grant Program may include the acquisition, stabilization, rehabilitation, restoration, and general preservation of historic structures. Additionally, funding may be used to prepare architectural plans, engineering reports, and related documents necessary to implement such capital improvements. All proposed work must be aligned with accepted preservation standards, such as those articulated by the New Jersey Historic Preservation Office. Applications involving properties already listed on the New Jersey Register of Historic Places or identified in local preservation surveys are typically prioritized. Participation in this grant program begins with the submission of an Intent to Apply form, due by 4:30 P.M. Eastern Time on Friday, March 27, 2026. This early step allows the County to assess project feasibility and readiness. The complete grant application, inclusive of all required documentation and supporting materials, is due no later than 4:30 P.M. Eastern Time on Friday, April 24, 2026. All applications must be submitted to the Bergen County Department of Parks, Division of Cultural and Historic Affairs, electronically. Paper applications are not accepted. Applicants are expected to follow the guidelines and complete all items included in the Grant Application Package. This includes a checklist, narrative descriptions of the project’s scope and significance, budget justifications, site photographs, and relevant legal documentation. Use of the NJ Historic Preservation Office Preliminary Application Form is also required, which serves to verify project eligibility and alignment with state-level preservation criteria. Additional guidance is provided through resources such as the Bergen County Register Listings and Recommendations document, which helps applicants determine whether their properties meet the historical significance thresholds. The evaluation process involves review by the Historic Preservation Advisory Board, which considers historical integrity, urgency of the proposed work, potential community impact, and completeness of the submission. Preference may be given to projects that promote public access or visibility of preserved structures. Award announcements are anticipated by late 2026, and all grant-funded work must be completed within a designated timeframe defined in the project contract. Grants are generally awarded on a reimbursement basis, requiring applicants to front project expenses before receiving County funds. For inquiries or to submit application materials, interested parties should contact Elaine Gold, Administrator of the Bergen County Historic Preservation Trust Fund, at [email protected] or by phone at (201) 336-7294. All digital materials should be sent electronically or via a cloud-sharing service if file sizes exceed email limits. This program is a critical mechanism in Bergen County’s preservation strategy and provides an essential funding source for local efforts to maintain and celebrate the region’s historical legacy.

Verify your site is listed on Bergen County or NJ Historic Registers before applying; unlisted sites may be deprioritized.