NEWARK, N.J. — A new era for film and television production in New Jersey officially began this month as construction started on the Lionsgate Newark Studios, the state’s first purpose-built production complex designed specifically for TV and film.
The project, a collaboration between Gilbane Building Company, Great Point Studios, the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), and the Newark Housing Authority (NHA), was celebrated at a groundbreaking ceremony on December 12 at Newark’s Temple of Hip Hop.
Spanning nearly 300,000 square feet, the 12-acre facility will include production soundstages, offices, support space, and parking for 145 cars, 22 trucks or trailers, and 11 RVs. Once completed, the studio will be owned and operated by Great Point Studios.
“As an organization dedicated to advancing the arts in Newark and the surrounding area, the construction of Lionsgate Studio completely aligns with NJPAC’s mission of transforming lives through artistic expression and production,” said Tim Lizura, Executive Vice President of Real Estate and Capital Projects at NJPAC.
The ceremony drew an array of public officials, including Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, Governor Phil Murphy, and other dignitaries, who signed a Community Benefit Agreement outlining commitments to Newark residents and South Ward communities.
“With roots in New Jersey dating back to 1966, it only made sense for Gilbane to help construct the first film and TV production studio of its kind in the Garden State,” said John E. Anderson III, Business Leader of Gilbane’s New Jersey office.
Gilbane, which will lead construction, has a long record of building in Newark, including 50 Rector Park and the Prudential Center. The firm will also work toward inclusion benchmarks dedicating 25 percent of construction contracts to Minority Business Enterprises, 7 percent to Women’s Business Enterprises, and ensuring 40 percent of total work hours go to Newark residents.
Once completed, the Lionsgate Newark complex is expected to position New Jersey as a major player in film and television production while bringing economic and creative opportunities to the city’s workforce and arts community.
Newark breaks ground on Lionsgate Studios, the first purpose-built TV and film production facility in New Jersey.