Paterson Landmark Begins Its Next Act

For more than 170 years, the First Presbyterian Church has stood as one of Paterson’s defining landmarks, its soaring Gothic tower watching over a changing city while generations of residents passed through its doors. This summer, the historic building begins its most transformative chapter yet.

This month, that transformation becomes tangible: construction has begun on Phase I of NJCDC's redevelopment of the First Presbyterian Church into the future Great Falls Arts Center, marking a major milestone in the preservation and adaptive reuse of one of Paterson’s most treasured historic buildings. This initial $3 million phase will focus on critical work to protect and restore the historic structure, while laying the groundwork for NJCDC's larger vision for the property. Ultimately, NJCDC hopes to undertake a comprehensive redevelopment totaling approximately $21 million, transforming the landmark into a vibrant destination for arts, creativity, education, and community — a vision that will depend in large part on securing state tax credits and other funding. Like NJCDC’s other long-term investments throughout the Great Falls Neighborhood, the project reflects a belief that thoughtfully designed community spaces can preserve the past while expanding opportunity for future generations.

Preserving History, Creating Opportunity

Originally completed in 1852, the First Presbyterian Church served as a place of worship and community gathering for more than 170 years. As decades of deferred maintenance and general wear took their toll, however, the future of the beloved landmark became increasingly uncertain.

Rather than allowing one of Paterson’s architectural treasures to continue deteriorating, NJCDC saw an opportunity to preserve its history while giving it a renewed purpose. The church’s next chapter won’t replace its history — it will build upon it, ensuring that a building long dedicated to bringing people together continues serving the community in new ways.

Restoring the Landmark, Piece by Piece

This initial phase of work begins with protecting the building itself. This first phase focuses on stabilizing and preserving the structure through roof repairs, masonry restoration, and other critical exterior work. If the necessary state tax credits are awarded, Phase II would focus on interior redevelopment, with construction anticipated to begin in mid-2027 and continue for approximately 18 months.

The current plans for the completed Great Falls Arts Center, if state tax credits are received, include a theater and performance space, rehearsal and educational areas, STEAM programming, makerspaces, and art studio space. The final mix of programming and amenities will continue to evolve as planning progresses. Designed first and foremost to expand opportunities for Paterson’s young people, the center is also intended to serve as a welcoming cultural destination where families, adults, and residents of all ages can experience performances, participate in creative programming, and come together as a community.

The project's broader financing strategy anticipates a combination of state tax-credit equity, federal recovery funding, historic-preservation support, legislative grant funding, and NJCDC resources. A critical component of that strategy remains pending: NJCDC has applied to the New Jersey Economic Development Authority's Cultural Arts Facilities Expansion Program for state tax credits, with support from the City of Paterson, and continues to work toward securing that award. Together with substantial preservation assistance already received from the New Jersey Historic Trust and other committed resources, a successful tax-credit award would help make the project's full vision possible.

“Historic preservation isn’t simply about saving beautiful buildings — it’s about giving them a meaningful role in the life of the community,” said NJCDC Founder & CEO Bob Guarasci. “The Great Falls Arts Center will create new opportunities for young people to discover and develop their talents while also serving as a place where families and neighbors can experience the arts together. That’s how we honor our past while investing in Paterson’s future.”

A Community Already Behind It

The announcement that an initial phase of work has begun has already generated excitement throughout the Paterson community.

Among the many comments shared online were reflections from former congregants grateful to see the church’s future secured, longtime residents celebrating the preservation of an important city landmark, and community members expressing enthusiasm for the opportunities the new arts center will create. One resident described the project as “a great need in this city,” while another called it “a game-changer for the community,” praising its potential to put Paterson’s talented young people at the forefront of the arts.

That enthusiasm speaks to something larger than the restoration of a historic building. It reflects a shared belief that Paterson’s past and future are deeply connected, and that preserving the city’s landmarks can also create new opportunities for the people who call it home.

As construction begins and scaffolding rises around one of Paterson’s most recognizable landmarks, the work represents far more than bricks, mortar, and restoration. It marks the beginning of a new chapter — one that honors the city’s remarkable history while creating a welcoming home for creativity, learning, and cultural experiences that will enrich Paterson for generations to come.