The Monmouth Museum is proud to announce that it has been awarded a $500,000 grant through the New Jersey Economic Development Authority’s Activation, Revitalization, and Transformation (A.R.T.) Phase II Program. This significant investment will support the Museum in opening a new satellite location in downtown Dunellen, New Jersey. The expansion marks the Museum’s first additional site in its 60 year history and represents a major step in extending its mission to inspire, educate, and connect communities through art, science, and culture.

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The Dunellen museum site will combine two storefronts (264 and 266 North Avenue), bringing hands on STEAM programming, art exhibitions, family learning experiences, and community arts initiatives to Middlesex County. Located across from the Dunellen Train Station on NJ Transit’s Raritan Valley Line, the new site offers exceptional accessibility for residents, families, commuters, and schools traveling from across the region. The project is designed to support local revitalization, attract foot traffic, strengthen small businesses, and contribute to the long term vibrancy of Dunellen’s downtown district.

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Exciting things are happening as we prepare for the Monmouth Museum’s new Dunellen location, and we’re thrilled to share that our Grand Opening will take place on Saturday, May 2 at 12:00 PM. ​We hope the community and friends from across the region will join us for this special moment as we officially open our doors and celebrate the start of something new.

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To mark the occasion, the inaugural exhibition will feature a cardboard art show by acclaimed Asbury Park artists Porkchop and Bradley Hoffer. These artists are known for transforming everyday discarded materials into imaginative works of art. Using cardboard, light, and found materials, they create playful environments that feel both magical and unexpected.

More details about the exhibition and opening festivities will be announced soon, but for now we encourage everyone to save the date.

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As preparations continue, we are also pleased to welcome Emily Jenison as Assistant Manager of the Dunellen location. Emily will help lead programming, support visitors, and work closely with the community as the new space comes to life.

If you would like to learn more about what we have planned or introduce yourself, please feel free to reach out.

Phone: 732-224-1992Email: ejenison@monmouthmuseum.org

 

Things are coming together nicely, and we are incredibly grateful for the warm welcome we have received from the Dunellen community and Mayor Jason Cilento. We look forward to creating a vibrant space where art, creativity, and discovery can be enjoyed by adults and children alike.

 

This project has been made possible through the support of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) and is supported by funding through the NJEDA’s A.R.T. – Phase II Grant Program. We are deeply grateful for their support and belief in our ability to bring a new level of arts and culture to this community.

 

“We are honored to receive this support from NJEDA and excited to begin this new chapter,” said Erika Schaefer, Executive Director of the Monmouth Museum. “Dunellen is a remarkable and resilient community with so much creativity and heart. This new location will allow us to bring our work to residents, guests, families, schools, and people of all ages. It is an opportunity for growth, collaboration, and joy, and I am thrilled to see it come to life!”

 

The new location will feature rotating art exhibitions, a hands-on STEAM exploration space for children, drop-in family programming, community workshops, and public events created in partnership with Dunellen organizations and local leaders. The Museum will also be available for birthday parties and special event rentals.

 

“We are delighted to welcome the Monmouth Museum to downtown Dunellen,” said Mayor Jason Cilento. “Their presence will bring energy, educational opportunities, and cultural engagement to our community. This project aligns beautifully with our goals for a vibrant and thriving downtown, and we look forward to working together.”