New Jersey Historic Preservation Office – Trenton, NJ

Overview of the Historic Preservation Office

The New Jersey Historic Preservation Office (HPO), situated within the Department of Environmental Protection, serves as the central agency for identifying, preserving, and protecting the state’s cultural resources. Functioning as the staff for the State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO), the office administers the state’s historic preservation programs under the mandate of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and the New Jersey Register of Historic Places Act. The HPO is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for New Jersey residents by ensuring that historic properties—ranging from architectural masterpieces to archaeological sites—are recognized and sustained for future generations. The office operates out of the Station Plaza 5 building at 501 East State Street in Trenton, acting as a regulatory body, a funding administrator, and a resource center for preservation planning.

Registers and Designation

One of the HPO’s primary responsibilities is managing the New Jersey Register of Historic Places and processing nominations for the National Register of Historic Places. Staff historians and archaeologists review applications to determine if properties meet the criteria for significance and integrity. Listing on these registers provides recognition and eligibility for various financial incentives, while also triggering regulatory review for publicly funded projects that might impact these resources.

Review and Compliance

The Review and Compliance section is critical for protecting historic sites from adverse effects due to development. The HPO conducts reviews under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act for federal undertakings and similar reviews for state and local projects requiring DEP permits (such as CAFRA or Freshwater Wetlands). This process involves consulting with developers and government agencies to avoid, minimize, or mitigate damage to historic properties.

Incentives and Local Support

To encourage private investment in historic buildings, the HPO administers the Federal Historic Preservation Tax Incentives program, which offers tax credits for the rehabilitation of income-producing historic properties. Additionally, the office manages the Certified Local Government (CLG) program, providing technical assistance and grants to municipalities that have enacted historic preservation ordinances. These programs aim to revitalize communities by leveraging their unique historic assets.

Location and Access

The Historic Preservation Office is physically located on the 4th floor of the Station Plaza 5 building. As a secure state facility, visitors must present valid photo identification and pass through security screening in the lobby. While the HPO maintains extensive files on historic properties, the office is primarily administrative. Researchers wishing to access the archives or survey files are typically required to make an appointment in advance. The location is convenient to the Trenton Transit Center, facilitating access for professionals and the public from across the state.