APA New Jersey Applauds Adoption of the State Plan

APA New Jersey proudly recognizes the formal adoption of the New Jersey State Development and Redevelopment Plan, a landmark achievement that modernizes the State’s comprehensive planning framework for the first time since 2001. At a time when New Jersey is confronting interconnected challenges related to housing affordability, climate resilience, infrastructure investment, equity, and economic competitiveness, the Plan establishes a long-overdue, coordinated roadmap for guiding growth statewide.

APA New Jersey extends its sincere appreciation to Governor Phil Murphy and his administration for advancing this essential update. Undertaking a full revision of an outdated State Plan required sustained leadership and commitment, and its successful adoption represents a major accomplishment that reinforces New Jersey’s role as a national leader in forward-thinking planning policy.

The updated State Development and Redevelopment Plan is designed to align land-use decision-making across State agencies, counties, and municipalities. It promotes a balanced approach to growth that supports economic development while safeguarding natural and water resources and strengthening existing communities. The Plan is organized around ten core priorities—housing, infrastructure, revitalization, climate change, environmental justice, equity, and comprehensive planning among them—and emphasizes redevelopment, reinvestment, and intergovernmental coordination as central strategies for long-term sustainability.

The Chapter was honored to serve on the Project Team and to work closely with the Office of Planning Advocacy throughout the multi-year development process. As part of its work with the State, the Chapter supported outreach and engagement efforts, hosted educational webinars focused on the goals and framework of the Plan, and worked to prepare the Preliminary Draft Plan.

Several APA New Jersey leaders were in attendance at the State Planning Commission meeting that culminated in final adoption on December 17, 2025, including President Charles Latini, Executive Director Sheena Collum, Vice President of Policy Tom Dallessio, and Board Members Angela Knowles, Bob Kull, and Maura Fennessy.

The Chapter thanks the State Planning Commission, led by Chair Tom Wright, for its oversight, guidance, and perseverance throughout this complex process and also congratulates current and former Executive Directors Walter Lane and Donna Rendeiro for their leadership and determination, along with the dedicated staff of the Office of Planning Advocacy, whose work was instrumental in bringing the Plan to adoption.

The adoption of the State Development and Redevelopment Plan marks a new era of comprehensive planning in New Jersey, grounded in coordination and shared responsibility. Its success will depend on continued collaboration among State agencies and strong partnerships with county and municipal governments to ensure policies, investments, and land-use decisions are aligned and mutually reinforcing.

🔗 Learn more and explore the New Jersey State Development and Redevelopment Plan