The conceptual estimate covers repairs to greenhouses, barns and other buildings at 96 River Road, but excludes environmental cleanup and does not represent an approved construction project.
MONTVILLE, NJ – Restoring the buildings at Montville’s recently acquired 96 River Road property could cost approximately $10.35 million, according to a conceptual estimate released by the township on Aug. 19.
The estimate was prepared by Bilow Garrett Group Architects & Planners and presented to the Township Committee on Aug. 18. It evaluates the condition of the former Condurso farm’s greenhouses, residences, barns, sheds and other structures.
The projected cost includes approximately $5.68 million for construction, a $1.7 million contingency, nearly $1.48 million in general conditions, $755,000 in contractor profit, $568,000 in design fees and about $176,000 for cost escalation through a projected April 2028 construction start.
Those figures do not include several potentially significant expenses. The building evaluation excludes asbestos and lead removal, other environmental remediation, subsurface vapor mitigation, financing, furniture, equipment and an owner’s contingency. The estimate also contains an $800,000 site-work allowance for approximately two acres because the property contains unidentified debris and possible environmental hazards.
The report describes the property’s stone barn as being in fair condition with historical features worth preserving. It recommends complete demolition of one garage and varying levels of repair or restoration for the remaining structures.
Montville purchased the nearly 30-acre property at 96 and 97 River Road for $6 million in October 2025. The acquisition connected two existing township-owned tracts and increased the municipality’s preserved land inventory to approximately 3,060 acres, or about 25% of Montville, according to Township Committee meeting minutes.
The purchase price and restoration estimate are separate figures. The township has not approved a $10.35 million construction project, awarded a restoration contract or announced how work would be financed.
The future of the structures has already generated public debate. During the March 10 Township Committee meeting, residents objected to a proposed resolution involving removal of greenhouses and other buildings they considered part of Montville’s agricultural history. The resolution was tabled, according to the meeting minutes.
The township has also hired a firm to evaluate its recreation properties, facilities and fields, including 96 River Road. That process is expected to include public meetings, consultation with local organizations and a community survey. Dates have not yet been announced.
The building report gives officials a preliminary measure of what preservation could cost. It does not decide which buildings will remain, what recreational uses the property may support or whether the township will proceed with restoration.
