Gilbane Building Company has partnered with Great Point Studios, the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), the Newark Housing Authority (NHA), and local leaders to break ground on Lionsgate Newark Studio—a new 300,000-square-foot, purpose-built film and television production complex set to transform New Jersey’s entertainment landscape.
At the December 12 celebration of the official start of construction, representatives from Gilbane, NJPAC, Great Point Studios, and NHA were joined by Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, and community members to commemorate the start of construction. The event celebrated not only the launch of a major arts and production hub, but also a shared commitment to delivering long-term benefits to Newark residents.
That commitment is formalized through a newly signed Community Benefit Agreement, which dedicates 25% of construction contracting to Minority Business Enterprises, 7% to Women’s Business Enterprises, and 40% of total worker hours to Newark residents. These goals underscore the project partners’ unified focus on inclusive economic growth and expanding local opportunity.
Owned and managed by Great Point Studios, the 12-acre campus will feature state-of-the-art production stages, office and support spaces, and dedicated parking for crews and equipment. Once complete, the studio is expected to serve as a major cultural and economic catalyst—made possible through a strong partnership centered on collaboration, community investment, and the advancement of New Jersey’s creative economy.
