A $12 million tax credit was awarded to a rehabilitate a historic Trenton property. The plans will bring a performing arts venue and events center to the site.

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority board approved the tax credit June 11 through the Historic Property Reinvestment Program. The initiative focuses on attracting long-term investment while preserving properties that have historic value.

In the state capital, the site features an 1839 historic church structure and addition (built in 1950).

120 East State will develop the Steeple Center Rehabilitation Project. The plan will completely rehabilitate the church structure and addition. The resulting venue will then include:

• Seating capacity of nearly 300
• Space for catering, arts performances, conferences and other events
• Both free and fee-based community-based gathering and programming spaces
• A lobby and visitor center with a café, gift shop, restrooms, administrative offices as well as waiting areas

‘Great things are ahead’

“With this HPRP award, the Steeple Center Rehabilitation Project will preserve the historic church for future generations, bolster the community’s cultural arts sector, and act as a driving force for ongoing revitalization in the Trenton area,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan.

“We are grateful to the NJEDA for this essential support of our project – it moves us an extremely important step closer to transforming 120 East State into a center that will in turn help transform downtown Trenton,” said Molly Dykstra, acting executive director of 120 East State.

Cherry Oakley, board president of 120 East State, said, “Great things are ahead for downtown Trenton and we’re going to play a vital role in making them happen.”

The award comes on the heels of a $7 million award by the NJEDA toward other revitalization projects in Trenton.

“This investment is a major win for Trenton’s cultural and economic future,” said Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora. “Restoring this historic church not only preserves an iconic part of our city’s architectural legacy, but also breathes new life into our downtown by creating a vibrant space for arts, events, and community gatherings.”

“We’re looking forward to Trentonians, their friends, and visitors from everywhere having a reimagined historic place to gather and grow,” said Oakley.

Gusciora added, “Thanks the NJEDA and 120 East State, we’re one step closer to making downtown Trenton a destination for residents and visitors alike.”