Area towns get state funding for open space projects

   Several area municipalities received state open-space grants under legislation sponsored by state Assembly members Reed Gusciora (D-Princeton Borough) and Linda Greenstein (D-Plainsboro) that was recently signed into law by acting Gov. Richard J. Codey.
   The new law (A-3198) appropriated $16.1 million from the Garden State Green Acres Preservation Trust Fund for the development or acquisition of lands for recreation and conservation purposes. The money will fund 36 projects.
   Princeton Township will receive $1.4 million — $400,000 for open space and $500,000 each for Coventry Farm and Greenway Meadows.
   "Central New Jersey has struggled during the past decade to maintain its rich diversity of farmland and suburban town centers," Mr. Gusciora said. "Through preservation projects in Mercer County, the state is assisting local efforts to maintain our open space for the public’s enjoyment."
   West Windsor and Plainsboro townships will each receive $400,000 for land preservation efforts.
   "Funding from the Green Acres program not only furthers our open space preservation efforts, but it supplements smart-growth initiatives that will prevent overdevelopment," Ms. Greenstein said. "Both goals are achievable with this environmentally sound initiative."
   Montgomery Township will also receive a grant of $400,000 for open space acquisition.
   State Assemblyman Michael J. Panter (D-Red Bank) is also a sponsor of the bill.