Picatinny Arsenal
Updated: September 22, 2023
Written by Veteran.com Team
Picatinny Arsenal in New Jersey primarily aids Army transformation goals by innovating technologies for the US Armed Forces and fabricating munitions, weapons, and armor systems. It also hosts the US Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technology Directorate to devise tools, equipment, and procedures for EOD personnel.
Base Operator:
719-567-1110
Address:
213 NJ-15
Wharton, NJ 07885
What Kind of Base is Picatinny Arsenal?
Picatinny Arsenal is a 6,400-acre military research and manufacturing hub. The Army established it in 1880 as the Picatinny Powder Depot, but has now evolved into the headquarters of the US Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Armaments Center. It is famed for creating the Picatinny rail and is the Army’s expertise center for small arms cartridge ammunition. The facility, renowned for its innovations, originated as a gunpowder manufacturer and transformed post-World War I into a producer of heavy munitions and a research and development center. It remains pivotal in advancing technologies offering employment to skilled technicians, scientists, and engineers.
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Picatinny Arsenal Housing
The military base at Picatinny Arsenal offers a variety of housing options. Balfour Beatty Communities manage the on-post housing options for military personnel.
Off-post housing is also an option in the nearby community of Wharton, New Jersey.
How to Apply For Housing
On-post housing is provided by Picatinny Homes, who present an array of rental units tailored to accommodate active-duty Army families stationed at the base. You can call 973-328-2992 to speak with a leasing specialist or apply through the online portal.
Picatinny Homes offers rentals from two to six-bedroom capacity. These homes include features such as master suites, attached garages, open floor plans, and sunrooms. This community boasts numerous playgrounds, as well as tennis and basketball courts. Furthermore, its strategic location ensures convenient proximity to all amenities and facilities within Picatinny Arsenal.
PCS and TDY Lodging
At the Picatinny Arsenal military base, temporary lodging is available for both Temporary Duty and Permanent Change of Station personnel. Reservations can be made by contacting the Guest House at (973) 724-4014. The lodging facility operates from Monday to Friday, 700 to 1530, and is closed on weekends and holidays.
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What is the BAH for Picatinny Arsenal?
The Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) at Picatinny Arsenal varies depending on rank, years of service, and dependency status. Visit the New Jersey state BAH page or see the chart below for more information.
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NORTHERN NEW JERSEY, NJ BAH Rates
Military Housing Area: NJ202
| Grade | With Dependents | Without Dependents |
|---|---|---|
| E01 | $3,723 | $2,793 |
| E02 | $3,723 | $2,793 |
| E03 | $3,723 | $2,793 |
| E04 | $3,723 | $2,793 |
| E05 | $4,032 | $3,156 |
| E06 | $4,263 | $3,444 |
| E07 | $4,284 | $3,735 |
| E08 | $4,293 | $4,083 |
| E09 | $4,485 | $4,143 |
| W01 | $4,281 | $3,621 |
| W02 | $4,290 | $4,080 |
| W03 | $4,302 | $4,155 |
| W04 | $4,566 | $4,260 |
| W05 | $4,920 | $4,266 |
| O01E | $4,287 | $4,029 |
| O02E | $4,296 | $4,128 |
| O03E | $4,617 | $4,254 |
| O01 | $4,068 | $3,408 |
| O02 | $4,260 | $3,930 |
| O03 | $4,299 | $4,176 |
| O04 | $5,046 | $4,263 |
| O05 | $5,607 | $4,269 |
| O06 | $5,655 | $4,272 |
| O07 | $5,706 | $4,326 |
For more information, look at BAH rates by state or calculate your exact BAH rate.
Picatinny Arsenal Surrounding Area
The Picatinny Arsenal is a unique military research and manufacturing facility located in Morris County, Northwest New Jersey. This 6,400-acre installation sits between the Pocono Mountains and the Jersey Shore, offering a diverse range of outdoor and recreational activities. The nearby town of Jefferson and Rockaway Township offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture. The Arsenal is also in close proximity to New York City, providing access to world-renowned museums, the Broadway theater district, and the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts.
Healthcare
There are no medical services on post. Keller Army Community Hospital is located approximately one hour away from Picatinny Arsenal.
Childcare
The base offers a variety of childcare options to cater to different needs. The Child Development Centers (CDCs) provide full-day, part-day, and hourly care services, accommodating children in various age ranges. Below is a list of the facilities and their services:
| CDC | Contact Number | Services Offered |
| Bldg 175 | (973)724-4337 | Full Day Care Infant & Toddler, Hourly Care for Military |
| Bldg 3228 | (973)724-9055 | Full Day Preschool, Hourly Care for Military |
| Bldg 3153 | (973)724-8490 | Full Day Infant, Toddler & Preschool, Hourly Care for Military |
| Bldg 3156 | (973)724-5555 | Full Day Pre-Kindergarten/Strong Beginnings, Hourly Care for Military |
Schooling
There are no schools available on Picatinny Arsenal. Students attend the Rockaway Township Public School District for grades K-8 and Morris Hills Regional District for grades 9-12. Bus transportation is provided for students who live on post.
