Hunterdon County awards $5.677 million contract to renovate Arboretum, add 4,000 sq. ft. classroom space

The Hunterdon County Board of County Commissioners voted Sept. 16, 2025, to award a contract for the Hunterdon County Arboretum addition and renovations to Real Construction Company Inc., not to exceed $5,677,000.

Parks Division presenter Ryan Preston described the project as an expansion that will add more than 4,000 square feet of classroom space and dedicated educational displays to modernize the 1953 structure and improve ADA accessibility and major mechanical systems. "With the additional 4,000 square feet of classroom space and dedicated educational displays, this investment will allow us to deliver dynamic multimedia presentations to engage learners of all ages," Preston said.

Preston said the County Architect Frank Bell provided design support and noted renderings of the renovation were available at the meeting. Commissioners asked about contractor familiarity; Preston said the low bidder was familiar to local contractors and that the apparent low bidder withdrew, leaving Real Construction as the next lowest bidder.

Commissioner Rich moved to authorize the contract; Deputy Director Van Doren seconded. The board approved the award by roll call.

The resolution authorizes a county bid (RFP/bid number read as 2025‑17) and directs county staff to proceed with contracting and construction oversight. The contract includes upgrades intended to support environmental education programming, a multimedia classroom for school groups, and improved visitor access.