The List of Identified Historical Properties for Metuchen Must be Revised

In May 2024, the Metuchen Historic Preservation Committee recognized the necessity for an updated study on demolished historically significant properties. This subject has not been updated since March 2020.

A drafted historic preservation ordinance for the town had been available since December 2023, but measures have been stalled, and no progress has been apparent in establishing an effective form of the document. The destruction of historical structures within Metuchen’s boundaries has only increased since then; 31 Woodbridge Avenue is a prime example and was knocked down in December 2023. The State of New Jersey’s List of Identified Properties for the town has not been updated to reflect these recent razings. 

In a 2010 study, titled the Evaluation of Historic District Potential, historically significant structures were identified, leading to the establishment of the Woodwild Historic District in Metuchen. However, the rest of the town’s archival properties are vulnerable to demolition. Elements of the town’s character, as the town is a living representation of a long-lost era of history, are at risk of being permanently lost to time. Without updating the list of identified properties to include those that are already knocked down, Metuchen may never complete or receive an ordinance preventing its history from being impeded upon.