Lionsgate, in partnership with Great Point Studios, the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), and the Newark Housing Authority (NHA), has begun construction on the Lionsgate Newark film studio. The facility will be located in Newark’s South Ward and is expected to open in 2027.
A groundbreaking ceremony was held at the Temple of Hip Hop, an arts and community center near the future studio site. The planned 300,000 square-foot complex will be the first purpose-built TV and film production studio in New Jersey. It is projected to create over 600 long-term jobs, with a focus on hiring Newark residents, and is estimated to generate more than $800 million annually for both Newark and New Jersey.
“New Jersey is now a significant global competitor of consequence in film and television,” said Gov. Phil Murphy. He referenced other major projects like Netflix’s Fort Monmouth studio and Paramount at 1888 Studios in Bayonne as signs of growth in the state’s film industry. “This initiative is more than just a film studio; it is a profound commitment to the future of Newark and to the future of the film industry in New Jersey.”
Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka described the project as a source of opportunity for city residents: “From the opportunities presented by the construction phase to the long-term careers the studio will sustain in rapidly growing industries, this project represents a genuine collaboration with the people of Newark.”
The facility will be built at the former Seth Boyden Housing site, close to transportation hubs such as Newark Liberty International Airport, NJ TRANSIT, PATH system, Port of Newark, and several highways. The complex will feature production stages between 20,000-30,000 square feet each, offices, support spaces, parking for cars and trucks, along with comprehensive on-site production services.
A Community Benefits Agreement was signed during today’s event outlining commitments from developers to job creation for local residents as well as new educational programs. “New Jersey has become one of the most exciting places for film and television production, and this project builds on that momentum,” said Robert Halmi, Founder and CEO of Great Point Studios. “The state’s strong support and smart incentives have created the ideal environment for a world-class facility like this. Lionsgate Newark will strengthen the state’s growing production industry and create meaningful opportunities for Newark residents.”
During construction, 40% of worker hours are set aside for Newark residents; contracting goals include allocating 25% to Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs) and 7% to Women’s Business Enterprises (WBEs). Once operational, 70% of full-time jobs across various departments will go to local residents who also receive priority consideration when applying.
The partners plan collaborations with local schools through curriculum development related to entertainment industries as well as training programs aimed at providing pathways into these fields for young people.
Financial commitments include $300,000 dedicated community funding: $200,000 in grants distributed among ten local organizations upon completion plus $100,000 earmarked for environmental improvements through contributions to South Ward Environmental Alliance.
“Not only will the studio bring jobs to the South Ward but…the organizations behind this project are showing themselves to be good neighbors already by offering this level of support to our community groups and our schools,” said Patrick O. Council from Newark City Council representing South Ward. “Lionsgate Newark will serve as an economic engine that will drive so many positive changes for our community and for Newark as a whole.”
The $125 million-plus facility spans twelve acres; it will be owned/managed by Great Point Studios with Matrix Development serving as developer while Gensler leads architecture/master planning.
