State Budget Delivers Over $1M To Support Arts, History, & Youth Programs In Princeton

PRINCETON, NJ - Three Princeton organizations will receive a combined $1.15 million in state funding for the programs.

The announcement was made by the NJ-16 Legislative District delegation, Sen. Andrew Zwicker, Assemblyman Roy Freiman, and Assemblywoman Mitchelle Drulis during a visit to the community on Tuesday.

The legislators toured each recipient organization to highlight the diverse funding secured in the FY26 state budget:

HiTOPS received $200,000 to expand LGBTQ+ youth programming, including enhanced drop-in services, peer support groups, and educational initiatives. The organization provides safe spaces and affirmation for LGBTQ+ students to build confidence and community connections.

McCarter Theatre was awarded $450,000 to replace lost federal arts funding and bolster its Stage Door Access program, which combats social isolation by providing low-income residents and youth with access to live performances.

Princeton Battlefield secured $500,000 for historic restoration projects, including rehabilitating period roads and fences, planting a commemorative orchard, and relocating visitor services ahead of America's 250th anniversary celebrations.

"From LGBTQ+ youth who deserve safe and affirming spaces, to the arts that connect and inspire, to historic sites that tell the story of America’s founding, our job as legislators is to ensure these institutions thrive, not struggle,” said Zwicker.

“These investments affirm New Jersey’s values of inclusion, creativity, and commitment to the truth. At a time when these very ideals are being undermined nationally, we are sending a clear message: we stand with the institutions that make New Jersey and the 16th Legislative District such an amazing place to live."

The funding comes as federal support for arts programming faces cuts and LGBTQ+ rights encounter political challenges at the national level.

“These organizations contribute so much to the cultural and historic fabric of our community,” Freiman said. “From preserving our past to supporting the next generation, this funding will go towards ensuring these institutions can continue to grow and make a positive impact on the lives of residents in the 16th Legislative District.”

Assemblywoman Drulis called it "a privilege to support these projects, which embody the values and vibrancy that make this district such a special place to live."

Organization leaders expressed gratitude for the state support. Alex Aikens, Senior Director for Programs and Services at HiTOPS, said the funding demonstrates that "New Jersey stands in solidarity with its young people, affirming their identity, dignity, and health."

McCarter Theatre Executive Director Martin Miller emphasized the importance of public support for arts accessibility, calling the theater "a public trust" and expressing appreciation for "this vote of confidence in the value of these experiences to our Central New Jersey community."

Princeton Battlefield Society Board President Benjamin Strong said the grant will help "transform the Princeton Battlefield back to its 1777 appearance" and enhance the visitor experience for the upcoming 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution.

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