Carteret Mayor Daniel J. Reiman announced Wednesday that the Borough has been awarded a $300,000 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) to modernize and preserve the historic Blazing Star Cultural Arts Center.
The funding, provided by the Middlesex County Division of Housing, Community Development and Social Services via the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, will support a series of critical infrastructure upgrades at the municipally-owned landmark located at 63 Carteret Avenue.
Built at the turn of the 20th century as a YMCA for local industrial workers, the building served as the borough’s public library for nearly 70 years before the library moved to its current location in 1999.
The upcoming rehabilitation project will include:
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ADA Compliance: Installation of a new elevator and fully accessible restrooms.
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Basement Restoration: Structural work that will allow the public to access the building’s basement for the first time since 1999.
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Modernization: General interior and exterior improvements to support the building’s heavy use as a community hub.
“Blazing Star is a hub where local artists and artisans gather to learn and work together,” Reiman said. “It’s also where the Community Choir rehearses and often performs. I am very grateful that CDBG funds will be used to help modernize and expand this important space.”
The grant was awarded through a newly competitive process implemented by Middlesex County. To secure the funds, the borough had to demonstrate that the project either significantly impacted low-to-moderate-income residents or provided a major town-wide benefit. Blazing Star—which hosts free programs for the public—qualified on both counts.
The center is managed by the Central Jersey Arts Council (CJAC) and serves as the primary home for:
- The Carteret Historical Committee, which preserves local heritage.
- The Carteret Gay-Straight Alliance, providing a safe space for community advocacy.
- Weekly Programming: Ranging from wellness workshops and art classes to the annual Carteret Comic Exhibit.
The project is expected to go out to bid shortly, with construction aimed at ensuring the center can handle its growing list of participants and visitors.
