Total offer valued at $65.1 million 

Madison, NJ – September 9, 2024 – In July, after more than two years of negotiations, the Borough of Madison made a final offer valued at more than $65 million. Unfortunately, Drew has not yet accepted that offer. The Borough implores Drew University leadership and its Board of Trustees to accept this offer without delay. While the offer remains on the table, upcoming deadlines for court filings and the potential expiration of grant funds secured for the purchase of the Forest will mean that the offer will be withdrawn as Madison will not fund lost grants with local tax dollars or debt.  

The Borough’s comprehensive proposal includes acquiring and preserving approximately 51 acres of forested land, including the Zuck Arboretum, Hepburn Woods, and properties along Glenwild and Green Village Roads. Additionally, the offer allows for residential development on other parts of the Drew campus, consisting of both affordable and market-rate apartments.  

Madison has collaborated with various stakeholders, including Federal, State, and County officials, the Friends of the Drew Forest, potential private donors, and the Fair Share Housing Center, to support the forest’s purchase. The Borough continues to negotiate in good faith, as our current offer is, in fact, 30% more than a previous offer made in March 2023.

The Borough extends our gratitude to the Friends of the Drew Forest, the 15,000+ community members who signed the change.org petition, environmental advocates, and various government officials—including Senator Booker, Congresswoman Sherrill, New Jersey Senators Bucco and McKeon, Morris County Commissioners, and members of the Morris County Open Space Committee—who continue to support our efforts. The Borough reaffirms our commitment to protecting the Drew Forest and urges the public to remain engaged in this important cause.