Morris County, Denville Announce Preservation of 57 Acres
$5.7 Million Open Space Trust Fund Grant Supports Preservation Project
Morris County and Denville Township have announced the preservation of more than 57 acres of open space through the St. Francis and Pocono Field Preservation Project, supported by a $5.7 million grant from the Morris County Open Space Preservation Trust Fund.
The project includes the 17-acre former St. Francis property on Diamond Spring Road and a 40-acre portion of 18 Pocono Road, including the Pocono Fields, barns and festival grounds. Together, the properties will be permanently deed restricted as open space, ensuring their protection for future generations.
“This project highlights the strength of our partnerships with municipalities such as Denville and our shared commitment to protecting land in Morris County,” said Commissioner Thomas Mastrangelo, liaison to the Morris County Office of Planning and Preservation. “Since 1994, Morris County has helped preserve more than 18,400 acres of open space, protecting natural resources while expanding recreational opportunities for residents.”
To mark the milestone, Commissioner Mastrangelo joined Commissioner Director Stephen Shaw, Denville Mayor Thomas Andes and Joe Barilla, director of the Office of Planning and Preservation, to record a video announcement filmed onsite at the St. Francis property in Denville.
“I’m pleased to share that Denville has taken major steps to acquire and preserve both the St. Francis property and the Pocono Fields,” said Mayor Andes. “Together, these properties will be permanently preserved as open space and remain an important part of our community’s history. Projects like this show what’s possible when we work together.”
The announcement follows the successful execution of contracts between Denville Township and Springpoint Realty, Inc. for both properties. The township is expected to take ownership in July.