By Matt Chiappardi, Staff Writer
HIGHTSTOWN — The Planning Board indicated its general support this week for Habitat for Humanity’s plans to build its first borough house.
The organization wants to buy two lots — 246 and 250 S. Academy St., the latter of which is owned by the borough — and build a two-family home on the land, Tony Infosino, the site selection chairman for Habitat’s Millstone Basin branch, told the board Monday.
”Habitat for Humanity’s plans would be a great fit for that location. We hope to see them move forward on this project,” board Chairman Steve Misiura said.
The project would require a variance, since it’s depth would be undersized like many other Habitat projects,” Mr. Infosino said.
”We build simple, no-frills housing, typically with no garage, no basement, and no air conditioning,” he added.
Mr. Infosino also indicated that the house could be either one or two stories depending on the needs of the family placed there, and that the home would likely help the borough meet it’s Council on Affordable Housing requirements.
Habitat for Humanity is a non-profit, ecumenical Christian ministry dedicated to eliminating substandard housing and homelessness worldwide. Since 1976, it has provided more than 250,000 houses worldwide.
Typically a family is chosen for a home before construction begins and they contribute what is called “sweat equity” to help build the house. The organization also relies heavily on donations of material and equipment. Mr. Infosino previously said the local project is being backed the 1st United Methodist Church, which is raising funds.
The local Habitat affiliate recently opened an office at 120 Main St. in the borough. In addition to Hightstown, it serves East Windsor, Robbinsville, West Windsor, Cranbury and Plainsboro. The chapter has helped needy families move into eight area houses, with six in East Windsor, all on Evan Avenue.
Now that he has the board’s blessing, Mr. Infosino said his next step is to approach the Borough Council and see if it is willing to sell its lot. He said he plans to do so Monday.

