TRENTON, N.J. (August 5, 2026) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) announced today that the New Jersey Chapter of Golden Seeds has invested more than $10 million in women-owned start-ups since its launch in 2020. The announcement follows Golden Seeds’ milestone of investing more than $200 million in women-owned companies. Golden Seeds is one of the nation’s largest and most active angel investment networks. The New Jersey Chapter of Golden Seeds was launched in 2020 in partnership with the NJEDA. 

“This $10 million investment milestone reflects the transformative impact of expanding access to capital for women entrepreneurs,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Evan Weiss. “Golden Seeds is supporting Governor Sherrill’s mission to build businesses that drive innovation, create jobs, and strengthen the state’s economy by connecting female founders with the funding, mentorship, and networks they need to grow and succeed.” 

Founded in 2004, Golden Seeds is the third-largest national angel group based on number of transactions and the largest angel investment group nationwide focused on investment in women-led businesses. Golden Seeds members, nearly 300 strong, along with its venture funds, invested $200 million in more than 270 women-led companies. 

“New Jersey is fostering an environment where women-led businesses can thrive by expanding access to capital and cultivating a strong angel investment ecosystem,” said NJEDA Chief Economic Transformation Officer Kathleen Coviello. “This milestone demonstrates how strategic investment in female founders fuels innovation, creates economic opportunity, and strengthens communities across our state.” 

The New Jersey Chapter currently has 23 members and invests primarily in technology, life sciences and healthcare, and consumer sectors. There are currently eight New Jersey companies that came through the New Jersey Chapter Office Hours that are funded by Golden Seeds. 

Based in Moorestown, Burlington County, Otava RF, Inc. develops end-to-end technology and radio frequency chips used by advanced 5G and Department of War applications. Otava raised a total of $1.5 million to date from Golden Seeds in 2022, 2024, and 2025. Otava Inc. is also a recipient of the NJEDA’s Angel Match Program. 

“Golden Seeds has been far more than an investor – they have been a trusted partner throughout Otava Radio Frequency (RF)’s journey,” said Victoria Pereira, CEO and Founder of Octava. “Their early confidence in our team and technology provided both the capital and credibility needed to pursue an ambitious vision in the highly competitive semiconductor industry. Through multiple rounds of investment, they have continued to believe in our mission and support our growth. We are grateful to have Golden Seeds as we build the next generation of RF semiconductor technologies.” 

The New Jersey chapter of Golden Seeds holds monthly Office Hours to introduce entrepreneurs with Golden Seeds investors, provide information on the angel investing process and support qualified founders through the Golden Seeds funding pipeline. From February 2020 thru June 2026, the chapter has hosted 225 female entrepreneurs in 64 monthly office hours. The next Office Hours session for the New Jersey chapter of Golden Seeds will be on September 9 at 4 p.m. To sign up, click here.  

Investors interested in Golden Seeds membership and the broader angel investing community can join an online forum to observe members as they consider future investments. For more information, visit https://goldenseeds.com/angel-network/interested-in-joining/. 

A meeting of the Commission of Science, Innovation and Technology (CSIT) Board has been scheduled for Friday, August 7, 2026, at 10:00 am.

A copy of the proposed agenda can be found at https://www.njcsit.gov/

The following Microsoft Teams link and conference number are provided:

Join the meeting now

Meeting ID: 284 944 464 110 69

Passcode: 8NP7UN3Z

Dial in by phone

Dial-in number: +1 551-220-2262

Phone conference ID: 828 032 403#

TRENTON, N.J. (July 30, 2026) –The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) will auction up to $25 million in corporation business tax and insurance premiums tax credits through the Food Desert Relief Tax Credit Auction. The auction, which was approved during the NJEDA’s July Board meeting, helps businesses reduce their New Jersey taxes by up to 15% while raising funds to strengthen food security and fight hunger in communities across the state. The NJEDA will begin accepting applications on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.  

WHAT:            Up to $25 million in tax credits will be up for sale through the Food Desert Relief Tax Credit Auction, allowing bidders to offset their NJ tax liability by up to 15%.  

Proceeds will fund programs that that strengthen food access and reduce hunger in communities across the state where these challenges are the most acute. These future grant, loan, and/or technical assistance opportunities will advance the priorities established by the Food Desert Relief Act and complement the NJEDA’s robust toolkit of existing food security programs, including FEED NJ, which was funded by proceeds from past tax credit auctions and is investing $30 million to catalyze innovative, sustainable, and scalable food access initiatives in underserved areas. 

WHO:              New Jersey Corporate Taxpayers or Insurance Companies that want to reduce their New Jersey 2026 tax liability. Companies do not need to be located in a food desert, be in the food industry, or make any ongoing commitments beyond the purchase transaction to buy tax credits through the auction.  

WHEN:           Applications for the Food Desert Relief Tax Credit Auction will open on Tuesday, September 8, 2026 at 10 a.m. and will close on Friday, October 9, 2026 at 5 p.m. Applications and additional information can be found here.  

An informational webinar will be held on Monday, August 10, 2026 at 1 p.m. For more information and to register for the webinar, click here.  

To learn more about NJEDA resources for businesses, call NJEDA Customer Care at 844-965-1125 or visit https://www.njeda.gov and follow @NewJerseyEDA on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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TRENTON, N.J. (July 24, 2026) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Board approved two awards under the Cultural Arts Facilities Expansion (CAFE) Program, paving the way for projects at the Center for Creativity at the Rialto in Westfield and the Paper Mill Playhouse in Millburn. Together, these investments will expand access to performing arts programming for residents and students across Essex and Union Counties, while revitalizing two cultural destinations.  

“New Jersey’s arts and culture sector is a powerful economic driver, fueling local businesses, creating good-paying jobs, and strengthening communities across the state. Governor Sherrill is committed to investing in this thriving sector and expanding opportunities for economic growth,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Evan Weiss. “Through the CAFE Program, the NJEDA is increasing access to major arts and cultural institutions, which helps attract visitors, support regional economies, and ensure that residents from every community can share in the economic and cultural benefits that these organizations provide.” 

The Rialto Center for Creativity project will breathe new life into Westfield’s 1920s-era Rialto Theater, transforming the landmark into a modern cultural hub. Plans include an adaptive reuse and a gut renovation. The first floor will be renovated to include a flexible performing arts and events space with a 450-person capacity, a lobby and ticketing area, a catering kitchen and cafe, dressing rooms, and a gallery space. The second floor will encompass four multi-use classrooms to be used for cultural arts education, workshops, and rehearsals, as well as admin space and a gallery. The building will also receive mechanical, geothermal wellfield, and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) upgrades, and will also be renovated to include an elevator. 

The theater is positioned to serve as Westfield’s cultural arts hub, offering diverse programming across the visual and performing arts and generating year-round economic activity. Its operating model includes sliding scale rental fees, scholarships, and discounted ticketing to support broad community access. Additional plans include youth programming and partnerships with organizations serving individuals with cognitive and mobility challenges. The project was approved for up to $43.3 million in CAFE Program tax credits. 

The Front of House project will reconfigure and expand the entrance and lobby area of Paper Mill Playhouse in Millburn. The project will address longstanding deficiencies in accessibility, circulation, and building systems, and will also replace outdated and undersized restrooms with modern, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant facilities, upgrade the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, and will redesign main entrances and interior walkways to eliminate accessibility barriers. The new two-story lobby will feature box office, concessions and merchandising areas, monumental stairs and elevators, bathrooms, and an enlarged donor lounge. 

The Paper Mill Playhouse is a statewide cultural asset that has a variety of programs for underserved schools and individuals with disabilities, as well as comprehensive accessibility programming and discounted and reduced cost access. The project was approved for up to $24.8 million in CAFE Program tax credits. 

“I am deeply grateful to the NJEDA and the CAFE Program for this transformative investment in Westfield,” said Westfield Mayor Jeremy Berman. “The Rialto is one of our community’s most cherished historic landmarks, and its restoration represents an extraordinary opportunity to honor our past while investing in our future. As a vibrant arts and cultural anchor, the Rialto Center for Creativity will strengthen our downtown, support local economic development, and create a welcoming destination for residents, visitors, artists, and businesses alike.” 

“The Paper Mill Playhouse is our crown jewel. We’re incredibly lucky to have a theater of this caliber right here in Millburn, and we are thrilled to see the State stepping up to support its future,” said Millburn Mayor Frank Saccomandi.  

“The Rialto’s return marks a new chapter for Westfield and the region,” said Bill Crandall, President of the Rialto Board of Trustees. “Thanks to the NJEDA’s generous commitment to the arts, we’re rebuilding more than a theater; we’re creating a home where creativity thrives and people come together. Now we invite both individuals and institutions to help us cross the finish line. We are so thankful for and appreciative of the donors who are helping us meet our vision.” 

“Paper Mill Playhouse is profoundly grateful to the New Jersey Economic Development Authority for supporting our Front of House renovation project,” said Mike Stotts, Executive Director of Paper Mill Playhouse. “The patron experience at Paper Mill will be greatly enhanced and improved for generations to come with the upgrades that are included in this project. Greater accessibility and a more thoughtful layout of our public spaces are the driving forces of this project, not to mention the upgrades to mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems that are severely outdated and inefficient. Founded in 1938, Paper Mill Playhouse is the largest producing theatre in New Jersey, serving a statewide audience of over 200,000 people annually, including 40,000 students. Paper Mill’s Next Act Campaign is about ensuring that the legacy of this nationally renowned theatre continues for generations.” 

New Jersey’s arts and culture sector contributes billions of dollars in economic activity each year, drives tourism, and enhances quality-of-life for state residents. NJEDA initiatives like the CAFE Program and the Activation, Revitalization, and Transformation (A.R.T.) Program leverage the economic potential of arts and culture projects to boost foot traffic in downtowns and main streets across New Jersey, supporting local small businesses, creating jobs, bolstering engagement with the arts, and strengthening the vibrancy of communities.  

The CAFE Program aims to increase cultural arts activities, attract visitors, boost engagement with the arts in underserved communities, and revitalize downtowns by providing tax credits to build or renovate facilities, including aquariums, historical societies, libraries, galleries, and museums. Eligible awardees can receive tax credits covering up to 100 percent of eligible project costs, up to $75 million.  

About the NJEDA

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) serves as the State’s principal agency for driving economic growth. The NJEDA is committed to making New Jersey a national model for inclusive and sustainable economic development by focusing on key strategies to help build strong and dynamic communities, create good jobs for New Jersey residents, and provide pathways to a stronger and fairer economy. Through partnerships with a diverse range of stakeholders, the NJEDA creates and implements initiatives to enhance the economic vitality and quality of life in the State and strengthen New Jersey’s long-term economic competitiveness.

To learn more about NJEDA resources for businesses, call NJEDA Customer Care at 844-965-1125 or visit https://www.njeda.gov and follow @NewJerseyEDA on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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BeOne Medicines will expand its U.S. manufacturing presence in NJ

TRENTON, N.J. (July 23, 2026) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Board approved a Next New Jersey Manufacturing Program award for Hopewell-based BeOne Medicines US Manufacturing Co., Inc. The entity is the manufacturing arm of its parent company, BeOne Medicines AG, a global oncology company recognized for developing innovative therapies for hematologic and solid tumor cancers. BeOne’s $300 million capital investment will result in 120 new full-time jobs.

The new facility is part of BeOne’s initiative to expand its U.S. manufacturing capabilities while strengthening its international supply chains. Following a comprehensive nationwide site selection analysis, BeOne chose New Jersey to build its small-molecule pharmaceutical manufacturing facility at its existing Hopewell Campus in Pennington.

“From Day One, I have been focused on cutting red tape and making New Jersey a better place to do business — and we’re thrilled to have companies like BeOne Medicines growing their footprint and creating additional jobs in the Garden State,” said Governor Mikie Sherrill. “BeOne’s expansion in Hopewell is a testament to New Jersey’s position as a global leader for innovation and as the medicine chest of the world. This investment will create more than 100 good-paying, high-tech jobs in the Garden State while strengthening America’s ability to produce life-saving cancer treatments.”

“It’s exciting that BeOne Medicines has decided to expand its manufacturing footprint in the United States and even more exciting that it chose New Jersey to build this major facility,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Evan Weiss. “The pharmaceutical industry has a long legacy in New Jersey, and Governor Sherrill is committed to ensuring we remain the medicine chest of the world. The Next New Jersey Manufacturing Program is helping bolster the state’s manufacturing and pharmaceutical industries, drive job creation, and strengthen our economy.”

The new facility will be designed as a purpose-built, state-of-the-art manufacturing hub dedicated to small-molecule pharmaceutical product production, complementing the campus’s existing biologics manufacturing capabilities. The three-story, 145,000-square-foot facility will be designed to meet modern U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requirements, leveraging the campus’ established utilities, logistics systems, and operational framework. The facility’s core production areas will support one small molecule manufacturing line, with additional area pre-built for future expansion, and will be able to support all major unit operations required for tablet manufacturing.

“Every patient with cancer deserves innovative, high-quality medicines, and this expansion strengthens our ability to deliver them faster, reliably, and at scale as we work together to stop cancer,” said Aaron Rosenberg, Chief Financial Officer, BeOne Medicines. “Governor Sherrill’s support for this project and the State of New Jersey’s focus on advancing manufacturing were instrumental in making it possible. We are proud to be do our part by investing here, growing our team and manufacturing footprint, and continuing to deliver on our commitment to patients in the U.S. and around the world.”

BeOne opened its $800 million flagship U.S. manufacturing and clinical research and development facility in 2024 at the Princeton West Innovation Campus in Pennington. As a global oncology leader, the company focuses on treatments for a variety of cancers including blood, lung, gastrointestinal, breast and gynecological, as well as rare cancers.

“BeOne Medicines’ decision to make another major investment at its Hopewell campus is a strong vote of confidence in Mercer County and New Jersey’s highly skilled workforce,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Shirley K. Turner.  “This $300 million expansion will create 120 full-time jobs, strengthen domestic manufacturing of critical cancer treatments, and help ensure that innovative medicines reach the patients who need them.  I am pleased that the NJEDA is supporting this expansion, and  I look forward to seeing it deliver lasting benefits for cancer patients, employees, taxpayers, and our regional economy.”

“BeOne’s decision to expand in New Jersey reflects the strength of our life sciences industry and the talented workforce that drives it,” said Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson (D-Hunterdon, Mercer). “This investment will create good-paying jobs, bolster our economy, and help ensure New Jersey remains a global leader in developing and manufacturing lifesaving medicines.”

“I’m proud to see the NJEDA supporting the manufacturing of life saving medicines right here in the 15^th Legislative District,” said Assemblyman Anthony S. Verrelli (D-Hunterdon, Mercer). “This is precisely what these tax credits are designed to do. They help support businesses, create jobs, and push the entire field of medicine further into the 21^st century. We can all be proud of that!”

“We’re excited that BeOne is continuing to expand its presence here in Mercer County, bringing high-quality jobs to our community and helping to solidify our role as a hub for innovation,” said Mercer County Executive Dan Benson. “Working alongside our municipal and state partners, we’re sending a clear message that Mercer County’s location, workforce, and infrastructure make us a great place for businesses to invest. Congratulations to Hopewell Twp, and I want to thank Governor Sherrill and the team at NJEDA for helping to secure this investment and look forward to building an even stronger partnership with the team at BeOne.”

 “We are thrilled to welcome BeOne’s new small-molecule pharmaceutical manufacturing facility to Hopewell Township. BeOne has been an outstanding partner to our community, and after a nationwide search their decision to expand right here proves what we already know, that Hopewell Township and New Jersey are a great place to grow a business,” said Hopewell Mayor David Chait. “This project brings new jobs, new investment, and lifesaving medicines manufactured in our community, and we thank Governor Sherrill and the NJEDA for their support in making it possible.”

Far exceeding the program’s minimum investment and job creation requirements, BeOne qualifies for an award of $33.9 million over the course of five years.

About the NJEDA

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) serves as the State’s principal agency for driving economic growth. The NJEDA is committed to making New Jersey a national model for inclusive and sustainable economic development by focusing on key strategies to help build strong and dynamic communities, create good jobs for New Jersey residents, and provide pathways to a stronger and fairer economy. Through partnerships with a diverse range of stakeholders, the NJEDA creates and implements initiatives to enhance the economic vitality and quality of life in the State and strengthen New Jersey’s long-term economic competitiveness.

To learn more about NJEDA resources for businesses, call NJEDA Customer Care at 844-965-1125 or visit https://www.njeda.gov and follow @NewJerseyEDA on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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Please be advised that the New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission Annual Board Meeting will be held in person and via teleconference on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at 10:30 am. 

Members of the public who wish to speak during the public comment segment of the meeting, pertaining to agenda items, may attend in person or call into the meeting by using the conference number, and are encouraged to call in prior to the meeting start time to avoid any delays.

IN PERSON:

New Jersey Economic Development Authority

One Gateway Center

11-43 Raymond Plaza West, 14^th Floor, Newark, NJ 07102

The agenda and teleconference number can be found 48 hours prior to the meeting here.

TRENTON, N.J. (July 22, 2026) – New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Chief Executive Officer Evan Weiss released the following statement today on the Aspire Program:

“Since its launch, the Aspire Program has supported more than 40 projects across the state, resulting in more than 7,500 new housing units for families, seniors, and commuters. The program has also supported the development of film studios and major health care centers, helping drive economic activity and create new good-paying jobs.

“Still, Aspire can be better. Through listening sessions, dozens of conversations, and our own data analysis it is clear that Aspire can be a difficult tool to use. It can also be an expensive one, with as much as half of Aspire credit awards paying for transaction costs. In large part because of this inefficiency, demand for the program far exceeds available resources. Governor Sherrill has made fiscal discipline a key part of her budget and economic development strategy. Ensuring Aspire tax credits do as much for the projects they are meant to support as possible is our goal.

“The NJEDA has decided to temporarily pause applications for the Aspire Program so that it can process current applications, protect funding for viable projects, and establish a new transparent and competitive framework. During this time, the NJEDA will review all options on how to strengthen the program.

“We expect to reopen applications for the Aspire Program in the fall. We are committed to updating the program with clearer standards, a stronger emphasis on fiscal discipline and project readiness, and, most importantly, alignment with Governor Sherrill’s economic development and budget priorities. We look forward to working with key stakeholders, industry leaders, and government partners to ensure changes are done responsibly and will result in the greatest economic impact for communities across the state.”

About the NJEDA

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) serves as the State’s principal agency for driving economic growth. The NJEDA is committed to making New Jersey a national model for inclusive and sustainable economic development by focusing on key strategies to help build strong and dynamic communities, create good jobs for New Jersey residents, and provide pathways to a stronger and fairer economy. Through partnerships with a diverse range of stakeholders, the NJEDA creates and implements initiatives to enhance the economic vitality and quality of life in the State and strengthen New Jersey’s long-term economic competitiveness.

To learn more about NJEDA resources for businesses, call NJEDA Customer Care at 844-965-1125 or visit https://www.njeda.gov and follow @NewJerseyEDA on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

NJIT economic impact assessment found CSIT-funded companies leveraged awards to bolster private sector investment

TRENTON, N.J. (July 20, 2026) – The New Jersey Commission on Science, Innovation, and Technology (CSIT), working hand-in-hand with the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), today released findings from an economic impact assessment of its programs, which are designed to advance startup growth and promote academic and technological research, development, and commercialization in the State. Since 2020, CSIT-supported companies have utilized 548 grants to create nearly 1,800 jobs and raise $524.5 million in additional capital, over 20 times the amount awarded through CSIT programs.  

“Since day one, Governor Sherrill has advanced a thoughtful plan to bolster business growth in the State by easing costs, expanding resources, and making government a more productive partner,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Evan Weiss. “CSIT’s efforts are a shining example of how effective programs can increase economic opportunities for business owners, creating jobs, attracting further investment, and strengthening the State’s innovation economy.”

“Since CSIT was reestablished in 2018, the Commission has focused its efforts on making New Jersey a leader in startup creation and entrepreneurial growth, supporting the advancement of novel technologies and sectors and strengthening the State’s innovation ecosystem,” said CSIT Executive Director Judith Sheft. “The findings in CSIT’s economic impact assessment exemplify the State’s progress in its efforts to expand access to capital and strategic resources for New Jersey entrepreneurs, and startup growth has resulted in meaningful discoveries and life-changing work being conducted throughout the State. We look forward to working with Governor Mikie Sherrill to continue to make the Garden State the best place to start and grow innovation-based startup enterprises.”

The assessment, conducted by the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), also found that the 226 reporting companies awarded funding through CSIT programs have generated $99.4 million in total revenue and paid taxes exceeding the total amount of funding awarded. CSIT programs have supported entrepreneurs creating innovative startup companies in some of the State’s fastest-growing industries, including clean energy, life sciences, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and biotechnology.

“CSIT funding fills a critical gap for the earliest-stage companies that often struggle to secure traditional investment, providing the catalytic support needed to transform breakthrough discoveries into real-world solutions,” said CSIT Chair and BioNJ President and CEO, Debbie Hart. “By accelerating the transfer of innovation from New Jersey’s world-class research institutions into the private sector, these investments help drive commercialization, strengthen the State’s innovation ecosystem, attract future investment and fuel long-term economic growth and competitiveness.”

The economic impact assessment analyzed startups that have utilized capital from 21 CSIT funding rounds to develop new technologies, advance commercialization, and grow in innovative industries. It also found that CSIT-supported companies are making meaningful advances in intellectual property, a key indicator of the technological progress being made by early-stage startups. A full copy of the report can be found here.

Inaedis, a biopharmaceutical technology company based in Princeton that received support through the CSIT Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)/Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Direct Funding Grant and Catalyst Seed Research & Development (R&D) Grant Program, is developing a scalable platform that removes the fundamental formulation, manufacturing, and delivery constraints limiting biologics. Through CSIT funding, Inaedis is attracting follow-on investment and continuing to grow in the Garden State.

“At Inaedis, CSIT funding has been transformative for our growth. The SBIR/STTR Direct Funding Grant has helped us bridge the gap between federal Phase I and Phase II funding by supporting critical operational and technical work that strengthens our Phase II proposal and our commercialization plan,” said Inaedis CEO Maksim Mezhericher. “CSIT grants have reduced our financial risk at a very early stage, enabled us to retain and attract technical talent in New Jersey, allowed us to hire new team members, and positioned Inaedis to be more competitive for future federal funding and private investment. They are a key reason we can grow as a New Jersey-based deep-tech startup rather than relocating our operations elsewhere.”

About the NJEDA

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) serves as the State’s principal agency for driving economic growth. The NJEDA is committed to making New Jersey a national model for inclusive and sustainable economic development by focusing on key strategies to help build strong and dynamic communities, create good jobs for New Jersey residents, and provide pathways to a stronger and fairer economy. Through partnerships with a diverse range of stakeholders, the NJEDA creates and implements initiatives to enhance the economic vitality and quality of life in the State and strengthen New Jersey’s long-term economic competitiveness.

To learn more about NJEDA resources for businesses, call NJEDA Customer Care at 844-965-1125 or visit https://www.njeda.gov and follow @NewJerseyEDA on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

About CSIT

In 2018, the Commission of Science, Innovation, and Technology (CSIT) was established. Comprised of representatives from the public and private sectors, as well as academia, CSIT is tasked with leading the way in promoting the State as a home for academic and technological research, development, and commercialization. For more information on CSIT, visit www.njcsit.gov. 

Joint Efforts to Develop Mixed-Use Residential Communities in Linden and Bayonne under Governor Sherrill’s Executive Order 17

TRENTON – Governor Mikie Sherrill today announced the release of two requests for proposals (RFPs), seeking development partners to build new, transit-oriented housing on state-owned land. These RFPs, released by NJ TRANSIT and New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), are clear examples of the Governor’s housing affordability agenda in action.  

Reports required by Executive Order 17 are not due until late September. However, Governor Sherrill and her Housing Governing Council are announcing early action to address this important issue.  

“From Day One, I have been relentlessly focused on making New Jersey more affordable for working people,” said Governor Mikie Sherrill. “New Jersey has not built enough housing to keep pace with the needs of our growing state, and families are paying the price. If we are serious about making New Jersey more affordable, we have to be serious about building more housing. Today’s announcements show that my administration is not waiting around for a report to take action. Before the ink is even dry on responses to my housing executive order, I am pleased to see agencies taking clear and decisive steps toward building more housing.” 

These actions highlight the Governor’s whole-of-government approach to tackling the housing affordability crisis, one of New Jersey’s defining challenges. No single agency, program, or level of government can solve a problem of this scale alone. By working together to reduce barriers to housing production, New Jersey can help catalyze housing development and work towards a future where residents of every income level have access to safe, stable, and affordable housing.  

NJ TRANSIT Initiates Process for New Transit-Oriented Development in Bayonne 

Continuing efforts to transform its real estate holdings into new revenue streams, increase access to opportunity, and boost ridership, NJ TRANSIT is seeking a qualified partner to transform a 4.3-acre parcel of land adjacent to the Bayonne-34th Street Station along the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail (HBLR) into a vibrant, Transit-Oriented Development community featuring apartments, retail, public space and a more modern, accessible public transit experience. 

“Transit-oriented development is critical to creating economically robust, vibrant communities in New Jersey while at the same time providing an important source of non-farebox revenue to NJ TRANSIT. Under Governor’s Sherrill’s leadership, we are providing much-needed housing in accessible, transit-friendly ways,” said NJ TRANSIT President & CEO Kris Kolluri. 

In collaboration with the city, NJ TRANSIT has issued a Request for Qualifications/Proposal to any interested, qualified entities to develop the parcels, which currently contain two surface parking lots directly south of the Bayonne-34th Street Station. Once chosen, the developer will lead the planning and construction of apartment homes for a mix of incomes, including a minimum of 20% affordable to low-and-moderate-income housing. In addition to housing, NJ TRANSIT’s goals for the site include creation of a vibrant, transit-oriented station area with pedestrian-friendly, ground floor commercial or retail space, inclusive public spaces, commuter parking, bus connections, micromobility enhancements, bicycle infrastructure and streetscape improvements. 

Using sustainable and resilient design practices, the project would also include commuter amenities to enhance the customer experience, and clear wayfinding and signage and accessibility features. 

“The City of Bayonne appreciates NJ TRANSIT’s interest in developing a portion of the 34th Street Light Rail Station property. We look forward to seeing the results from the upcoming request-for-proposals process,” said City of Bayonne Mayor Sharon Ashe-Nadrowski. 

The 34th Street Station is an important hub on the HBLR. Approximately 1,484 customers board there each weekday. The HBLR provides frequent service between major population and employment centers and facilitates connections to mass transit services to New York City and throughout New Jersey. 

The offering is aligned with The LAND Plan: Leveraging Assets for Non-farebox Dollars, NJ TRANSIT’s roadmap to raise as much as $1.9 billion in non-farebox revenue for the agency, up to $14 billion for the State of New Jersey, and up to $1.6 billion in municipal revenues over the next 30 years by leveraging portions of its 8,000-acre real estate portfolio. The plan highlights how NJ TRANSIT, working with the Legislature, state agencies and local host communities, can activate underutilized assets to deliver housing, jobs and recurring non-farebox revenue, while improving customer experience and reliability. The LAND Plan is designed to strengthen communities around NJ TRANSIT’s stations while improving service for customers. 

NJ TRANSIT will host a site visit on July 21, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., and interested parties must submit a Notice of Intent by August 18, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. ET. Proposals are due on September 23, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. ET. Respondents will receive information and instructions for submitting proposals upon submitting the Notice of Intent. 

To learn more about NJ TRANSIT’s TOD program, click here. 

NJEDA Issues RFQP to Transform Property at Linden Train Station to Create Transit-Oriented Housing Development 

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) today issued a Request for Qualifications and Proposals (RFQP) to solicit proposals for the purchase or lease and redevelopment of a commuter parking lot at the NJ TRANSIT rail station in Linden into a transit-oriented housing community. Proposals should include plans for transit-oriented housing to support Governor Sherrill’s mission to expand access to housing across the state.  

The NJEDA purchased the property at 101 West Elizabeth Avenue from NJ TRANSIT with the goal of transforming it into a vibrant, walkable community. It sits between two active, mixed-use developments on the southbound side of the station. The Linden train station offers service along the Northeast Corridor and North Jersey Coast lines. 

“Within the first few months of her administration, Governor Sherrill has taken bold steps to increase housing production and make living in New Jersey more affordable for families,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Evan Weiss. “The NJEDA’s purchase and Request for Proposals for redevelopment of the Linden site will deliver mixed-income, transit-oriented housing in the city’s downtown. I look forward to continuing to work alongside Governor Sherrill, NJ TRANSIT, and local officials to redevelop underutilized properties, expand housing, strengthen the local property tax base, and attract private investment.”

“We are excited to see the NJEDA move forward with this important redevelopment opportunity,” said Linden Mayor Derek Armstead. “As One West approaches completion, we look forward to another exceptional project that complements our downtown, enhances the area surrounding the train station, and continues to attract residents, businesses, and visitors to Linden. We are confident this site can become another cornerstone of our City’s continued growth and revitalization.”   

“Meeting New Jersey’s housing needs will require collaboration, innovation and a commitment to making the most of our public assets,” said Senate President Nick Scutari. “Projects like these demonstrate how state agencies, local communities and the Legislature can work together to expand housing opportunities, encourage economic growth, and make better use of the transportation infrastructure that already connects our communities.” 

“I look forward to working alongside Governor Sherrill, NJ TRANSIT, and local officials to redevelop underutilized properties, expand housing, strengthen the local property tax base, and attract private investment in Linden,” said Assemblyman James Kennedy.  

“The Linden project highlights how coordinated efforts among state agencies, local leaders, and policymakers can leverage public assets to expand housing opportunities, strengthen communities, and maximize investments in New Jersey’s transportation network,” said Assemblywoman Linda Carter.  

In addition to transit-oriented housing, proposals should include resident and commuter parking, energy-efficient design, and pedestrian connectivity for NJ TRANSIT customers. Respondents must submit a detailed development concept and narrative, market data supporting proposed rents or sales, funding sources and a 10-year operating pro forma, and a project schedule showing key milestones. Qualified developers must demonstrate experience delivering and financing projects of similar size and scope and a team with relevant mixed-use or transit-oriented development experience. 

The RFQP and complete list of eligibility requirements can be found here. 

All questions must be submitted no later than 5:00 p.m. on Monday, August 3, 2026, on the NJEDA’s Bidding Opportunities page. Answers to questions submitted will be publicly posted on the NJEDA’s website as Addendum. All RFQP responses must be submitted no later than 2:00 p.m. on Monday, September 28, 2026, on the NJEDA’s Bidding Opportunities page. 

About NJDEA 

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) serves as the State’s principal agency for driving economic growth. The NJEDA is committed to making New Jersey a national model for inclusive and sustainable economic development by focusing on key strategies to help build strong and dynamic communities, create good jobs for New Jersey residents, and provide pathways to a stronger and fairer economy. Through partnerships with a diverse range of stakeholders, the NJEDA creates and implements initiatives to enhance the economic vitality and quality of life in the State and strengthen New Jersey’s long-term economic competitiveness. 

About NJ TRANSIT 

NJ TRANSIT is the nation’s largest statewide public transportation system providing more than 925,000 weekday trips on 264 bus routes, three light rail lines, 12 commuter rail lines and through Access Link paratransit service. It is the third largest transit system in the country with 165 rail stations, 62 light rail stations and more than 19,000 bus stops linking major points in New Jersey, New York and Philadelphia.