Redevelopment Plan, Ordinance Introduced For Metuchen Arts District

METUCHEN, NJ — For years, Metuchen officials have worked hard on plans for the Metuchen Arts District, the centerpiece of which will be the Forum Theatre.

However, the owners of the Victorian-era building across from Forum Theatre have demolished a number of historical structures causing much concern among residents, Mayor Jonathan M. Busch said during Monday’s Council meeting.

Many residents have asked the Borough for help in preserving these historic structures.

In response, Council on Monday introduced a redevelopment plan and ordinance for the Metuchen Arts District which will help preserve these structures.

“If adopted, the plan will serve as a framework for our community to identify desired and permitted uses for these properties. Specifically, the proposed plan calls for the preservation, revitalization, repurpose, and reuse of the property as an inclusive place for arts, culture and history,” Busch said.

Through the ordinance, all the historic properties in the area will be anchored by the Forum Theatre. In other words, it will act as a protective mechanism.

“While a redevelopment plan cannot compel a private property owner to adopt our community’s goals for the property, it is a formal mechanism for us to declare our priorities for that space through a public-private partnership,” Busch said.

The ordinance and redevelopment plan will protect the large pieces of vacated land right in the heart of Metuchen Downtown. It aims to ensure that the property’s uses are consistent with a framework that will enhance the neighborhood.

“For example, while calling for the preservation, potential relocation and the re-purposing of historic structures, the plan also contemplates new buildings and unique structures that pay homage to the history of the area while incorporating a range of complementary uses,” Busch said.

“The plan also considers visual and performing arts studios, indoor amusement businesses, restaurants, retail shops, dedicated public spaces, and residential units.”

Busch said the Borough’s plans are far from finished as their “deliberative approach” has taken time to shape into a more comprehensive vision.

The Mayor noted that the plan will also strategically extend downtown Main Street streetscape along the Old Colonial Cemetery to Amboy Avenue and implement Metuchen’s Complete Streets policy, incorporating pedestrian and bicycle-friendly elements, internal walkways, active street fronts, and public art.

"Over the next few years, we will continue to chart our path toward the successful creation of the Metuchen Arts District,” Busch said. “We will continue to provide updates and host public input opportunities as specific plans unfold.”

There have been delays in the plans for the Metuchen Arts District and the Forum Theatre due to the theatre’s structural issues and the pandemic.

The borough has also been exploring the business operations and economic viability of the Forum, and as such, the reopening will take time.

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