LIONSGATE Studios is coming to Newark, New Jersey. Great Point Studios and the New Jersey Performing Arts Center are partnering with anchor tenant Lionsgate to bring a modern entertainment complex to what was once Seth Boyden Housing site. This location is conveniently located to Newark Liberty International Airport, the Port of Newark, NJ Transit, the PATH system and several major highways.

The complex is projected to be a 300,000 square-foot, full service production stage, offices and support space with parking for 400 cars and 65 trucks.  Services on site will include grip and electric, equipment, props, set building, restaurants, location catering, cleaning service and security.

"We have a shared vision for the future of the entertainment industry, and it's reflected in every detail we put into this complex," said Founder & CEO of Great Point Studios Robert Halmi. "Given the rise in studio production post-Covid, we are confident that expanding our studio program into New Jersey will be a welcome addition."

Great Point Studios founder Robert Halmi called upon decades of experience as founder of the Hallmark Channel and a producer of more than 400 film & television projects to create a facility that fits the needs of today's television and film productions.

Recent incentive legislation passed in New Jersey along with Governor Murphy's encouragement were what attracted Lionsgate to New Jersey.

"One of my administration's priorities has been to enhance New Jersey's film industry and create new revenue streams for our State," said Governor Murphy. "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. As a result, the introduction of the Lionsgate Newark Studio not only promotes the economic vitality of our state, but also provides good jobs and access to opportunity for all South Ward community members."

"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."

"This is a great opportunity to scale our East Coast studio footprint with our partners at Great Point Studios and the New Jersey Performing Arts Center to support our robust film & television production," said Lionsgate CEOJon Feltheimer.  "Lionsgate Studios Newark is also an important part of our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, enabling us to create hundreds of jobs, provide educational opportunities to local students and contribute to the economic revitalization of the South Ward of Newark."

It is anticipated to create more than 600 new long-term jobs, with priority for positions going to residents of Newark, and generate more than $800M of annual economic impact for Newark and New Jersey.