A Picturesque Township with a lot Going On

Growing quickly with Heart, Vision, and Momentum

Established in 1871, Mount Olive, New Jersey, is more than just a picturesque township in Morris County. Blending suburban energy and rural charm, this diverse community is rich with opportunity, celebrating a vibrant legacy, while welcoming the future. With easy access to major highways and neighboring cities, Mount Olive not only offers scenic, tranquil landscapes but also serves as a hub for business and community growth, shaping it into one of New Jersey’s most desirable places to live, work and thrive.

With a reputation as a business friendly environment, Mount Olive is proud of the local enterprises that exemplify the resilience and strength of the community. “Small businesses play a vital role in our local economy,” emphasizes Andrew Tatarenko, Business Administrator. “They contribute to the overall quality of life of our residents in numerous ways. They provide job creation, build community character, give back for local investment, and create a stronger, more resilient local economy.”

Planning for Balanced and Smart Growth

Mount Olive actively invests in infrastructure, with over $1 million earmarked to rehabilitate municipal roadways in 2025. “Infrastructure improvements play a crucial role in fostering economic growth and community development,” stresses Tatarenko. “Upgrading transportation networks and utilities attract business and lead to a more vibrant economy.”

In partnership with the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT), the township is working toward installing traffic lights at busy intersections, enhancing safety for drivers and pedestrians. Upgrades to the public water systems are also underway, in compliance with new EPA regulations that safeguard the community’s drinking water, specifically managing concerns over PFOA and PFOS.

When it comes to development Mount Olive is approaching growth with a deliberate plan. “Having an improper balance of residential and commercial development can lead to an undesirable community, impacting housing affordability, traffic congestion and overall resources available to support the community,” Tatarenko explains.

“Fortunately, our planning professionals and dedicated staff and volunteers  work together to implement various strategies to ensure  a harmonious blend of living, working, and retail spaces.” These comprehensive planning studies and zoning regulations are putting Mount Olive on the map as a desirable community for residents and businesses to call home.

On the housing side, major development is already underway. In Mount Olive’s Budd Lake area, construction is progressing on a large subdivision that will include 146 single-family homes, 168 townhouses, and 100 affordable “stacked townhouses.” Moving forward, the township is focused on mixed use development and overlay zones, creating an ideal environment where affordable and senior housing options are prioritized.

Workforce and Education

Workforce readiness is also top of mind, as Mount Olive works to attract economic development. “The Township maintains a close working relationship with our school district and community colleges,” Tatarenko notes. “The Mayor hosts two job fairs a year to connect residents to local businesses.”

He underscores the value of partnerships with local education providers such as County College of Morris (CCM) which are crucial for the township, both today and into the future.  He shares, “The school district and higher education institutions play an intricate role in economic development by fostering a vibrant local economy, shaping future workforce, developing curriculums that meet the current needs of the economy and attracting residents to the community.”

Recreation, Connection and Sustainability

Parks and recreation are a major part of the Mount Olive experience, and Turkey Brook Park is no exception. This regional gem sees over 185,000 visitors annually, an advantage for the local economy. “A recent review of foot traffic data showed that they traveled to local businesses after their visit,” Tatarenko reports. “That park is a major contributing factor to the success of our local businesses and the appeal of our community.”

Maintenance and protection of green space is another area of focus, exemplified through the establishment of an Open Space Trust Fund in 1995 and the work of the local Open Space Committee. Through these efforts the township has acquired approximately 2000 acres of open land.

“In total, Mount Olive Township, which is 31 square miles (19,840 acres), has 6,925 acres of preserved land, or 35% of the total land area,” relays Tatarenko. “The Township will continue to evaluate possible open space acquisitions and take appropriate action after considering development potential.”

In an effort to foster inclusion and wellbeing in the community Mayor Joe Nicastro has recently organized both a Multicultural Committee and Mayor’s Wellness Committee. “Through the Township Recreation Department, special events are held throughout the year,” details Tatarenko. “The theme in 2025 is ‘connected,’ which highlights the power of connection, bringing together local businesses, residents and tourists in fresh and exciting ways to build a strong community.”

Sustainability is also a priority and Mount Olive Township has achieved Bronze Certification in the Sustainable Jersey program.

Additionally, “Charge Up Your Town,” a 2023 initiative to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption, has led to the installation of seven EV charging stations, with the capacity to power up to twelve vehicles simultaneously.

Public-Private Partnerships

Mount Olive’s success is built on collaboration. One example is the partnerships between the township and local nonprofit sports associations which help to develop and maintain Turkey Brook Park. Tatarenko conveys, “The Township will bond for the improvements and the sport associations will pay back the cost over a period of time.  This arrangement has led to the park being developed much quicker and without tax payer funds.”

Furthering the model of shared investment and collaboration, Mount Olive also actively leverages grants through federal, state and county partners to fund critical infrastructure, environmental, and cultural projects.

“The Township was recently awarded a $600K Stormwater Infrastructure Improvement Grant from the Federal Government to improve stormwater management around the Budd Lake Watershed. This will improve the water quality of Budd Lake and start to revitalize the recreational opportunities available,”  he expands.

Additionally, $750,000 in grant money from county and state historical trusts has been secured, and will be used to renovate key historical sites, most notably the Seward House, a well-known and valued landmark in the community. Transportation infrastructure is also supported through external partnerships. Each year, Mount Olive receives approximately $250,000 from the New Jersey Department of Transportation to rehabilitate and maintain its road systems.

Alliances with local entities that support the township’s vision for growth are also important. Tatarenko highlights, “Mount Olive maintains a positive relationship with the Morris County Economic Development Corporation and supports the local Mount Olive Economic Development Committee to promote growth.”

Development with Vision

Looking ahead, Tatarenko says the future is brimming with opportunity. “Mount Olive continues to offer a great education system, many housing options, recreational activities, local farms, access to major highways, diversity and strong community ties,” he boasts. He points out plans for a mixed-use town center which is expected to be a hub of economic activity. Several large warehouses are also in development and expected to create new job opportunities. Along with these the next five years will see a major housing development. “The Township is also looking at creative ways to accommodate the fourth round affordable housing obligation which will not only provide affordable housing but create other opportunities for mixed use and community gathering points,” Tatarenko adds.

Like any growing community, Mount Olive has its challenges, including the New Jersey Highlands regulations. He recounts, “Although the regulations are valuable to preserve open space and protect natural resources, they impose constraints on development.  Without smart development, it will continue to be difficult to manage the township’s budget and keep taxes stable.”  To overcome this, the plan is to adjust property zoning to meet the requirements and encourage growth.

As the township grows, Tatarenko believes community engagement should be top of mind.  “Residents and business owners can contribute to the long-term economic and community goals by staying active in the community, supporting each other, staying informed and voicing their opinion,” he asserts.

“Ultimately, long-term economic and community success is a collaborative effort.  By working together, we can leverage each other and create a more prosperous and sustainable future for our community.”

Mount Olive is a true example of what happens when careful planning meets community spirit.  With a foundation built on collaboration and a forward thinking vision, this vibrant township is poised not just to grow- but to thrive.

AT A GLANCE

Who: Mount Olive Township, NJ

What: A growing township known for smart development, and quality of life.

Where: Morris County, New Jersey

Website: www.mountolivetwpnj.org