Princeton HPC approves resolution to permit reconstruction of wagon shed at Updike Farmstead (354 Quaker Road)

The Princeton Historic Preservation Commission approved a resolution to allow the demolition and reconstruction of the wagon shed (barn) at the Updike Farmstead, 354 Quaker Road.

Commission staff reported a site meeting attended by commission members, the applicant’s structural engineer John Harrison and architect Ronnie Regginger, and representatives of the local historical society; revised plans were submitted and reviewed. Commissioners voted to adopt the resolution after confirming the revised plans will be submitted to the planning office as part of an administrative waiver process.

Why it matters: the Updike Farmstead is a locally significant historic property; the commission’s resolution clears a preservation‑review step so the applicant can proceed with approved demolition and reconstruction work on the wagon shed. The commission explicitly clarified this resolution does not address the nearby event barn (referred to in the meeting as the Bojji Barn), which will require separate review.

Details and action

Staff reported that revised plans were prepared and reviewed onsite with the structural engineer and architect; the plans were acceptable and the applicant will submit six sets to the planning office to complete the administrative waiver. Commissioner Elrick moved to approve the resolution and Bridal (Freda/Bridal as recorded) seconded; a voice vote was taken and the motion carried.

Clarifying points

Commission members asked for clarity that the resolution applied only to the wagon shed and not to the larger event barn on the property. The chair confirmed that the event barn will come before the commission in a separate application.