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Fanwood outlines $875,000 plan to restore historic train station after $500,000 state grant
Summary
An architect presented a preservation plan for the Fanwood train station, citing microscopic paint analysis and a prioritized exterior rehabilitation. The borough has a $500,000 state grant and will seek additional Union County funding to cover an estimated $875,000 scope.
An architect presented a conservation-driven plan on Monday for repairing and repainting Fanwood’s historic train station and said the borough has secured a $500,000 state grant to begin the work.
Mike Debbiosi, the architect hired by the borough, told the council he and a conservator completed on-site surveys and a detailed paint study — including microscopic analysis of roughly 35 samples — to determine historically appropriate exterior colors and materials. "We did extensive surveys of the site…a paint study where they did a microscopic study of paint samples," Debbiosi said, describing the research that underpins the restoration approach.
Council President Patricia Walsh said the borough recently learned that Senate President Qatari had secured $500,000 in the state budget for the project. Debbiosi told the council the current 50%-to-75%-complete construction documents include a cost estimate of about $875,000 for the exterior scope: dormer and second-floor window replacement, repair or replicate original trim, selective siding replacement, paint stripping and repainting in historic colors, and specialized repairs to conserve original fabric.
Debbiosi said the work will prioritize repair over wholesale replacement where historic materials survive, but that some fabric must be reconstructed in kind. "The upstairs dormers…we’re replacing it in kind," he said, explaining that some trim is original and must be carefully disassembled, repaired and reassembled to preserve character. He said the project is labor-intensive and therefore costlier than a standard residential job.
Next steps include submitting the drawings to the State Historic Preservation Office because the station is listed on the register, completing the 100% construction documents, and then soliciting qualified contractors with preservation experience. The borough also plans to apply for a Union County grant to close the remaining funding gap.
The council and Historic Preservation Commission signaled support; Joan Scubish, chair of the commission, attended the presentation and endorsed the approach. No formal vote was required at the presentation stage. The council indicated it will proceed with the state application and finalize bid documents after the preservation office’s review.
