Area of Route 515 designated a scenic byway

VERNON — The New Jersey Department of Transportation recently designated the Route 515/94 in Vernon and Hardyston Township as a Scenic Byway.

Beginning on route 23 in Hardyston, the byway will run through County Highway 515 in Vernon, across Route 94 and to the New York state line.

A scenic byway is a “transportation corridor that is regionally significant.” Vernon Historical Society President Jessi Paladini said.

In order to qualify, a route must meet at least one of six criteria. In this case, the newly named Western Highlands Scenic Byway was granted designation based on scenic and historical qualifications. The most notable scenic area, Pinwheel Vista, was designated as one of the most scenic vistas on the Appalachian Trail.

Among the many natural views, the designation was granted for several historic stops along the route, including The Sea Captain’s House on County Highway 515, the red-roofed one-room school house along Price’s Switch Road and St. Thomas Church Chapel. The chapel is listed on the New Jersey Register of Historic Places.

The Vernon Township Historical Society sponsored the project, which was nominated by resolution by the Vernon Township Council, Hardyston Township Council and Sussex County Freeholder Boards.

“The Western Highlands Scenic Byway will be the 8th official scenic byway in the state,” Paladini said.

The byway will now be marked by signage and included in all state maps and promotional materials, giving recognition to the area.

The next phase will be to developea management plan for the byway, which will include, maintenance, funding needs and other relevant information. Despite funding issues, NJDOT has agreed to fund the management plan and signs will be provided outlining the route.

Once a byway has been granted state designation as a scenic byway it may then be eligible for federal grant funds and inclusion in the National Scenic Byway program.