For Immediate Release – June 25, 2025
MIDDLETOWN, NJ – To commemorate a major milestone in open space preservation and community investment, officials from Middletown Township, Monmouth County, and St. Mary, Mother of God Church gathered this morning at the newly-purchased Mater Dei property to sign documents symbolizing their collaboration.
In March, the Township announced that it reached an agreement to purchase the 25-acre property, formerly home to Mater Dei Prep, for $11.75 million – with 75 percent funded by a Monmouth County grant and 25 percent from the Township’s Open Space Trust Fund. The ordinance to acquire the property was unanimously passed by the Township Committee on Monday, April 28th.
This joint acquisition between the Township and County preserves the land as protected open space while reimagining it as Mater Dei Park – a place that pays homage to its sacred and cultural roots and offers residents Middletown’s first outdoor track, a football field, and four baseball fields.
"This landmark agreement symbolizes the strength of collaboration to preserve Middletown’s unique character,” said Mayor Tony Perry. “Through the power of shared values and strategic investment, this land will forever hold the memories of the terrific games, athletes, famous alumni, and incredible individuals who called this place their alma mater.”
Monmouth County’s leadership in dedicating open space dollars toward this acquisition underscores its commitment to enhancing public access to green and recreational spaces across the region.
“Today, I am proud to announce that Middletown Township is being awarded an $8,812,500 grant under the County Commissioners’ Municipal Land Preservation Incentive Program,” said Monmouth County Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone. “Through this grant, the County will hold a conservation easement which ensures that the new park is permanently preserved and can never be developed for non-park and recreation purposes. Monmouth County is known for its beautiful landscape and commitment to open space and this investment helps Middletown build on that legacy.”
The partnership that helped facilitate this acquisition extends beyond the signing ceremony. The Township and St. Mary’s Church have agreed to share access to the site’s parking lot to accommodate both park visitors and parishioners. The church’s beloved fairs and seasonal events will also remain annual staples in our community. In addition to honoring the school’s legacy, the purchase will also help support continued Catholic education.
“A majority of the funds the parish receives from this purchase will go toward an endowment for St. Mary’s School to continue fostering Catholic education,” said Father Jeff Kegley of St. Mary, Mother of God Church. “St. Mary’s is one of the best schools in our diocese, and we want to ensure that it stays that way.”
Demolition of the Mater Dei Prep building, which no longer meets modern safety standards, is expected to be completed by early fall. While there are currently no plans for the former school site, our community is encouraged to enjoy the recreational hub that is officially open to the public.
###
Photos and Videos from Event: 
Mater Dei Signing Ceremony Footage