What does the State Plan do?

• Promotes tourism and the official designation or local recognition of historic resources to preserve the state’s history.
• Promotes coordinated planning, flexible construction codes, and development regulations, without causing disinvestment or an economic burden.
• Advocates for appropriately sized development so that new buildings or projects do not harm or overshadow historic resources.
• Advocates for consistent historic landmark preservation rules and guidelines to protect New Jersey's history and heritage.
• Promotes historic district management programs that encourage vibrant neighborhoods while also ensuring that redevelopment, rehabilitation, and new construction does not damage or disrupt historical landmarks.
• Endorses adaptive reuse of historic buildings, while maintaining integrity and community character, to create new spaces such as affordable housing, commercial areas, or mixed-use developments.

Why it matters:

• Ensures future generations can enjoy and learn New Jersey’s history and heritage.
• Attracts visitors to historic sites, which supports local economies and spreads awareness of the past.
• Balances development with the preservation of a city's historical charm and character to ensure residents and visitors can enjoy its unique heritage.
• Prioritizes the reuse of existing structures to preserve valuable architectural features and community assets.
• Fosters appreciation for history and culture by connecting residents to art, history, and culture in public spaces.

What does the State Plan do?

• Advocates for the acquisition of land with ecological, cultural, or scenic value for public enjoyment and protection.
• Advocates for open spaces and recreational areas that are accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities and non-English speakers.
• Calls for the alignment of regional, county, and municipal land use plans to balance the need for economic development, housing, open space, and recreational areas.
• Prescribes development of a statewide network of continuous Greenways, Trails, and natural corridors connecting the public to forests, grasslands, and rivers through public-private partnerships.
• Supports private landowners’ rights to expand and sustain the preservation of forests, open spaces, and agricultural lands through financial incentives and strategic partnerships.

Why it matters:

• Protects sacred lands, nature reserves, and scenic areas for future generations.
• Provides spaces for outdoor activities that improve mental and physical health for all residents.
• Helps conserve natural habitats and enhances the biological health of ecosystems.
• Links people to nature through accessible greenways, trails, and open spaces, fostering a sense of community.
• Balances development that respects housing needs and the need for open space and recreational areas.