[Video Available] Lights, Camera, Planning

On October 29th, more than 150 planners, administrators, local officials, and community partners logged in for a highly successful online webinar spotlighting New Jersey’s rapidly expanding motion picture industry and the Garden State’s growing role as a national production hub.
With the Film Ready New Jersey program and NJEDA’s film and digital media tax incentives driving unprecedented interest from major studios, the webinar explored how communities can strategically harness this momentum. Presenters discussed the tools, policies, and planning approaches needed to attract, manage, and benefit from film production activity at the local level.

Participants learned how film-friendly municipalities can experience significant economic and cultural gains, from job creation and tourism to the revitalization of underutilized sites. The conversation highlighted practical strategies for integrating studio development and production activity into Master Plans, Redevelopment Plans, and zoning ordinances, positioning towns to proactively plan for this emerging industry.

The program also examined the broader ripple effects of studio investment — including support for small businesses, enhanced downtown vibrancy, and a strengthened statewide identity as a dynamic place to live, work, and create. It was a robust and engaging webinar that underscored the exciting opportunities ahead for New Jersey communities.

Moderator:

• Steven Martini, PP, AICP, Senior Associate, Nishuane Group, LLC

Panelists:

• Jon Crowley, Executive Director, New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission
• Elizabeth Parchment, Team Lead, Film – Marketing & Strategic Initiatives, New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission
• Chris Del Vecchio, Film Analyst, Manufacturing, Incentives, and Tax Credits (MIT), New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA)
• Desiree Hadley, Director, Office of Film and Television, City of Newark
• Allison Ladd, Deputy Mayor and Director, Department of Economic and Housing Development, City of Newark
• Liz Leheny, Principal, Phillip Preiss Grygiel Leheny Keller LLC