Lionsgate is building a $125 million dollar film studio in Newark, NJ. A studio management firm by the name of Great Point Studios and the New Jersey Performing Arts Center are collaborating on a TV and film studio, Lionsgate Studio.
The development will reside on the 12 acres of the former Seth Boyden housing complex. The deal has been in progress for the last two years as initially reported by Jersey Digs.
Local Government Welcomes Film Studio
“One of my administration’s priorities has been to enhance New Jersey’s film industry and create new revenue streams for our State,” stated Governor Murphy when he announced the deal. “With the addition of the Lionsgate Newark Studio, New Jersey will cement its position as a hub for television and film production with its proximity to all forms of transportation and access to more than 14,000 qualified union members in the region.”
Lionsgate Studio Newark will cover 300,000 square feet and include production stages from 20,000 to 30,000 square feet. The facility will also include offices and parking for 400 cars and 65 trucks. The facility will also house equipment, restaurants, catering, cleaning, and security services.
Jobs For Newark Residents
Developers expect to provide close to 600 new long-term jobs outside of the construction of the studio itself. With priority given to Newark residents for the positions made available. Which was a point the mayor of Newark made sure to incorporate in the deal for the studio.
“Bringing a project of this magnitude into Newark is a monumental victory for our city,” said Newark Mayor Ras Baraka. “It will bring hundreds of new jobs, create new educational opportunities for our students, and invigorate the revitalization of the South Ward.”
Lionsgate has just finished building a 500,000 square foot TV and film production studio in downtown Yonkers earlier this year. Their Newark studio project is the first film production facility in New Jersey after the approval of the New Jersey Film & Digital Media Tax Credit. Just a few weeks before the city of Bayonne approved the development of a 1.5 million square foot film production studio.