Hillsborough Secures $1M Grant to Transform Former Police Station

The vacant building will be renovated into a community recreation center.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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The township of Hillsborough, New Jersey has received a $1 million federal grant to renovate and repurpose a former police station located in the Merdinger Park and Nature Preserve. The project will convert the vacant structure into a hub for community meetings, local events, and recreational programming.

Why it matters

This project represents an opportunity for Hillsborough to transform an underutilized asset into a valuable community resource. By renovating the former police station, the township can provide residents with a versatile space for public gatherings and recreational activities.

The details

The renovation will include a complete overhaul of the building's façade and interior layout, creating a space suited for public meetings and other community events. The project is the culmination of a dedicated effort that began with the township's initial application in 2023.

  • The township applied for the grant in 2023.
  • The $1 million federal grant was secured in February 2026.

The players

Catherine Payne

The mayor of Hillsborough, who expressed gratitude for the federal support that made this project possible.

Bonnie Watson-Coleman

The U.S. Representative who was instrumental in initiating the proposal for the grant.

Tom Kean

The U.S. Representative who provided a vote of support to secure the final funding for the project.

Robert Britting, Jr.

The Hillsborough Township Committeeman and Recreation Liaison, who stated that the renovated center will be a cornerstone for Merdinger Park.

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What they’re saying

“This is a significant win for our community. This grant allows us to take an underutilized asset and transform it into a space that serves Hillsborough residents. We are grateful for the federal support that turned this vision into a reality.”

— Catherine Payne, Mayor (tapinto.net)

“This center will be a cornerstone for Merdinger Park. By renovating both the interior and exterior of the existing building, we are maximizing our resources to provide a top-tier space for our residents to gather.”

— Robert Britting, Jr., Township Committeeman and Recreation Liaison (tapinto.net)

What’s next

The township will begin the renovation process to transform the former police station into a community recreation center.

The takeaway

This project demonstrates Hillsborough's commitment to repurposing underutilized assets to better serve the needs of its residents. The new community recreation center will provide a versatile space for public gatherings and recreational activities, strengthening the town's sense of community.