By Lori Savron | Posted May 8, 2025
Montgomery Township continues its proactive Code Compliance initiative with rigorous enforcement efforts led by the Construction, Engineering, Zoning, and Health departments. These efforts aim to address vacant or abandoned properties and other nuisance issues through increased inspections and penalties for non-compliance. The goal is to ensure that all properties are maintained to community standards until they are rehabilitated or redeveloped.
An abandoned barn by Montgomery High School. Photo by Barbara A. Preston.
To enhance community involvement, the township has integrated technology with the “Report-a-Concern” online platform, enabling residents to easily report maintenance issues. The platform tracks enforcement actions and is available as both a mobile app and a fillable form on the Township’s website: Report-a-Concern.
Additionally, the Township utilizes tools from the Abandoned Properties Rehabilitation Act, such as the Vacant Property Registration Program. This program requires property owners to register and maintain vacant or foreclosed properties, helping prevent blight and ensure proper upkeep. Persistent enforcement has led to meaningful progress, such as the removal of abandoned structures at 1026 Route 518 (formerly Princeton Gamm Tech) and the 518/206 intersection (previously a Texaco and auto parts store). Zoning violations have also been issued to properties accumulating debris, as junkyards are not permitted land uses.
44 Bridle Path
Situated in a quiet neighborhood, this abandoned home with broken windows and an overgrown yard reflects a history of unpaid mortgage and property taxes, resulting in legal complications over ownership. Township enforcement has included mowing the grass, boarding up the home, and contacting lien holders to spur action. Despite setbacks, the property is expected to be sold within the coming months, allowing for repairs and reoccupancy.
65 Belle Mead-Griggstown Rd
The prolonged construction of a new single-family home has faced multiple challenges, including contractor changes, COVID-related delays, and supply chain issues. While the Township’s first attempt is to work with a property owner for compliance, this lingering neighborhood eyesore has been issued notices of violation (including fines) and had several court appearances (and penalties have been levied) in order to get the property owner to complete the work. Additional violations issued by both the NJ Department of Environmental Protection and Somerset-Union Soil Conservation District remain unresolved. Efforts continue to clean up debris in the front yard while preserving the conservation easement on portions of the rear and side yards.
Hurricane Ida-Impacted Properties
Flooding from Hurricane Ida damaged several homes along Beden Brook. Through the State’s Blue Acres program, affected homeowners were offered the opportunity to sell their flood-prone properties to NJDEP. To date, the program has acquired five properties to date (Opossum / Hollow / Montgomery Roads), investing over $1 million. These properties will be demolished by the State and converted into open space, reducing flood risks and enhancing community resilience.
148 Burnt Hill Road
Previously a vacant farmhouse, Pine Knoll was slated for redevelopment as a group home for adults with developmental disabilities. After years of delays to assemble the necessary funding, Allies Residential Services closed on their last funding source from HUD, and the house has been demolished to make way for a one-story residence for six adults with developmental disabilities. This project contributes to Montgomery Township’s affordable housing obligation.
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Health Resource Fair: On May 20, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman will host a Health Resource Fair and Town Hall from 4 pm to 6 pm, providing assistance with housing, food, medical care, mental health support, as well as Social Security, Disability, Medicare and VA benefits. The Congresswoman will also address local issues and federal resources at 6 pm.
Innovation Summit: On May 22 at 8:30 am, Montgomery Township will host its inaugural Innovation Summit, fostering collaboration in science, technology, and finance for economic growth and showcase Montgomery.
Memorial Day Events: On Memorial Day, join us at 10 am for the commemorative dedication of Community Drive in honor of Stephen Warner, a township resident killed in Vietnam. This event follows the 9 am Veterans’ Memorial Ceremony at Montgomery Veterans Park on Harlingen Road.
Farmers Market: The Montgomery Friends of Open Space outdoor farmer’s market opens on May 31 at 100 Community Drive. Looking forward to another successful season and finding ways the Agricultural Advisory Committee can spotlight our local farmers.
Summer Camp: If you are looking for an affordable summer camp option, sign up for the township’s Rec-n-Crew on the township’s website or call the Recreation Department at 609.466.3023.
