Metuchen Files Suit Against Owner Of Abandoned Gas Station

METUCHEN, NJ – The Borough has legal action against the property owner of the former gas station property on the corner of Main Street and Amboy Avenue, Mayor Jonathan M. Busch said.

The Borough filed the lawsuit after negotiations to acquire the property failed.

The property, abandoned since 2016, has fallen into disrepair and also suffers from soil and groundwater contamination, Busch said.

The location of the abandoned gas station is quite strategic as it is adjacent to the Forum Theatre and acts as a gateway to Metuchen's downtown. This makes it a “critical piece” of the Borough’s vision for the Arts District.

“Despite years of Borough attempts to negotiate with the property owner in good faith, the property owner insisted on unreasonable terms that would have, in my opinion, been detrimental to residents and we were unable to reach an agreement for purchase,” the Mayor said in a statement on Facebook.

“With no other viable options, the Borough has initiated condemnation proceedings. This action will allow us to acquire the property at fair market value, factoring in the necessary environmental cleanup costs at the expense of the property owner. Through this process, we aim to protect Metuchen’s interests and finally revitalize this long-neglected site.”

Busch said the decision to file the lawsuit was not made lightly.

“As Mayor, I take seriously the responsibility to balance thoughtful progress with fairness. Condemnation is always a last resort but it has become the only viable path forward to ensure the property’s remediation and unlock its potential as an integral part of the Metuchen Arts District,” Busch said.

The property’s acquisition will be funded with the remaining balance of the Middlesex County Arts Grant which Metuchen got in 2019.

Busch said Borough officials remain open to dialogue with the property owner but will “not allow intentional delays” to hinder the Borough’s progress in realizing the Arts District.

“We will continue to keep you apprised of any important updates on this matter and the Metuchen Arts District,” Bush said.

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