2023 Grant Application is available Here.
Historic Property Rehabilitation Grant Program
In 2007, The Trenton Historical Society (THS) instituted the Restore Trenton! Historic Property Rehabilitation Grant Program, funded by proceeds from THS’ annual Stop the Wrecking Ball fundraiser held in November. The administration of this program is made possible in part through an Operating Support Grant from the New Jersey Historical Commission.
Each summer, grants from the David Collier Fund are awarded to homeowners to promote the preservation and restoration of eligible historic properties in the City of Trenton. The grants are intended to finance facade repairs and exterior work for qualified buildings.
To be eligible to receive a Restore Trenton! grant, a property must be a residential property located within Trenton city limits and be at least 50 years old or older. Preference is given to properties owned by Trenton residents and located in an historic district or those listed as an individual property on city, state, or national registers of historic places.
Funding is limited to exterior projects and may include, but are not limited to, rehabilitation, restoration and major repairs (but not ongoing maintenance) of architectural details and features. Preference is given to projects focusing on a structure’s most visible façade(s).
The following are examples of projects eligible for funding under the grant program:
- Restoration of existing architectural features
- Replacement of missing architectural features
- Exterior painting
- Brick and Masonry repairs (includes major re-pointing but not stuccoing) Chimney repair
- Door repair/replacement
- Window repair/replacement but not vinyl or aluminum Railing repair/replacement
- Porch support repair/replacement
- Roof repairs
- Exterior weatherization of the building
Winning projects are selected by members of THS’ Preservation Committee. Awards range between $1000-$4000 and are dispersed at two stages during the project – at 50% completion and at 100% completion, with approval following an inspection at both stages. Applicants are responsible for complying with all City, State and Federal requirements for permits and approval and projects must be completed within 12 months of the award.