Design and Construction Report staff writer
Construction has started on Lionsgate Newark, New Jersey’s first purpose-built film and television production facility, following a Dec. 11 groundbreaking ceremony at the Temple of Hip Hop in the city’s South Ward.
The $125 million project is owned and operated by Great Point Studios, with Lionsgate as the long-term anchor tenant holding naming rights. Matrix Development is serving as the project developer, while Gensler leads architecture and master planning. Key stakeholders include the Newark Housing Authority and the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC).
Spanning 12 acres on the site of the former Seth Boyden Housing complex, the 270,000-square-foot studio will include six production stages ranging from 10,000 to 30,000 square feet, production offices, set-building facilities, and full on-site production services including grip and electric, equipment storage, catering, and studio support. The project is expected to open in 2027.
“This initiative is more than just a film studio; it is a profound commitment to the future of Newark and the production industry in New Jersey,” Gov. Phil Murphy said. “This growing sector will drive economic growth by creating thousands of new jobs, supporting local businesses, and bringing meaningful investments to the community.”
During construction, 40% of worker hours will be dedicated to Newark residents, with 25% of construction contracting allocated to Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs) and 7% to Women’s Business Enterprises (WBEs). Once operational, 70% of full-time employment opportunities — spanning maintenance, engineering, janitorial, administrative, landscaping, and security — will be reserved for Newark residents, alongside ongoing local-vendor preferences.
Developers estimate the project will generate more than 600 permanent production jobs and have an annual economic impact exceeding $800 million. In addition, Great Point Studios will provide $300,000 in dedicated community funding during construction and post-completion grants totaling $300,000 to local organizations, including environmental and green-jobs programs.
Lionsgate Newark is designed to be a full-service production facility and a community asset. Partnerships with NJPAC and the Newark Board of Education will provide educational programs, training, and apprenticeship opportunities in film, television, and related industries.
Great Point Studios CEO Robert Halmi described the project as “the ideal environment for a world-class facility that strengthens the state’s growing production industry and creates meaningful opportunities for Newark residents.”
