Metuchen, NJ – The Forum Theater, a historic landmark in Metuchen has been the subject of community discussion and debate for over a decade. From initial concerns about its fate to recent announcements of state involvement, the journey to restore this vital space has been a complex and often frustrating one.
In 2015, the Loewy family, owners of the building since 1983, placed the Forum on the market. This sparked immediate action from local residents, who began lobbying the Mayor and the Borough Council to save the theater. A Change.org petition, launched in November 2015, garnered significant support, urging the council to purchase and restore the building. Simultaneously, a group of residents explored the possibility of establishing a non-profit theater company to acquire and operate the Forum, though this effort faced challenges due to concerns about the involvement of certain individuals.
The fight to save the Forum gained momentum in 2016. The Metuchen Edison Historical Society (MEHS) featured the theater at their Local History Day and Preservation NJ declared it an “Endangered” site, thanks to an application by MEHS board. Residents continued their lobbying efforts, reaching out to the mayor and county officials through various channels.
In 2017, the Metuchen Parking Authority commissioned a study to assess the Forum’s potential impact on parking revenue, raising questions about the future funding of the project. The following year saw the borough begin the process for an Area in Need of Redevelopment (AINR) for the Arts District, and the announcement of a county grant at the Metuchen Country Fair.
The Borough of Metuchen finally purchased the Forum Theater in July 2019 for $1.399 million. This acquisition was the culmination of years of advocacy and planning. DEVCO was announced as the project advisor in October 2019, raising hopes for swift progress. However, despite these positive developments, the project stalled for the next two years.
In 2020, Governor Murphy signed a bill expanding theater liquor licenses for non-profits, a move that could potentially benefit a future operator of the Forum. Despite this, progress remained stagnant.
More recently, the project has seen renewed activity. Governor Murphy toured the Forum in February 2024, and state involvement was announced in April, with the theater slated for restoration as part of a state incentive program. DEVCO was appointed as the redeveloper in September 2024.
Despite these positive steps, concerns remain among residents about potential demolition and the preservation of the theater’s historic character. Furthermore, the town continues to downplay the Parking Authority’s 2019 contribution to the project, despite clear documentation.
In January 2025, the Borough held public forums to discuss the future of the Forum. Plans presented included film festivals, plays, dance performances, comedy shows, and concerts, with a proposed non-profit management structure and potential partnerships with the Count Basie Theatre and Plays in the Park.
The story of the Forum Theater is a testament to the power of community advocacy and the challenges of navigating local politics and development. While the future of this beloved landmark finally appears bright, the decade-long journey serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency, community engagement, and perseverance in preserving cultural treasures.
