Gilbane Launches Construction of Lionsgate Studio in Newark, NJ
On December 12, 2025, Gilbane Building Company, in collaboration with various project partners such as Great Point Studios, the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), and the Newark Housing Authority (NHA), held a groundbreaking ceremony at Newark's Temple of Hip Hop for the development of Lionsgate Studio. This ambitious project aims to create a state-of-the-art film and television studio spanning nearly 300,000 square feet, marking it as New Jersey's first facility purpose-built for such production purposes.
Notable attendees at the event included Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, and other local dignitaries, highlighting the significant community engagement with the project. The Lionsgate Studio will not only provide dedicated production space but will also house offices, support facilities, and extensive parking that can accommodate 145 cars, 22 trucks or trailers, and 11 RVs roughly spread over 12 acres of land.
Tim Lizura, Executive Vice President of Real Estate and Capital Projects at NJPAC, shared his excitement about this development, stating, 'As an organization dedicated to advancing the arts in Newark, the construction of Lionsgate Studio supports our mission to transform lives through artistic expression.'
John E. Anderson III, Business Leader of Gilbane's New Jersey office, emphasized the importance of this project to the local economy, saying, 'Gilbane has roots in New Jersey dating back to 1966, and it is fitting for us to take part in constructing the first film and television production studio of its kind in this state.' The studio is expected to greatly enhance the Newark business scene and contribute positively to the community for many years to come.
Gilbane’s notable history in the area includes the construction of several significant projects, such as the 50 Rector Park, the first market-rate residential tower erected in Newark in over half a century, along with the Prudential Center, the home stadium of the NHL’s New Jersey Devils.
In addition to creating jobs and boosting local economic growth, Gilbane aims to ensure diversity in its operations. The company plans to collaborate with a robust network of contractors from diverse backgrounds, aiming to allocate 25 percent of total construction contracts to Minority Business Enterprises and 7 percent to Women’s Business Enterprises. Also, 40 percent of the total worker hours are slated to be fulfilled by Newark residents, ensuring the community directly benefits from this project.
As a historic family-owned company founded in 1870, the Gilbane Building Company stands firm in its commitments to fostering lasting partnerships and creating safe, innovative spaces that serve the community. This project not only represents a significant investment in infrastructure but also serves as a foundational element for the future of Newark's entertainment industry.
Looking ahead, Lionsgate Studio is poised to attract various projects and productions, offering New Jersey a strategic edge in the competitive film and television landscape. With its advanced facilities and strong community ties, the studio is set to solidify Newark's place as a hub for creativity and innovation in the arts. This development signals a brighter future for the local economy and the creative sectors, marking a new era for New Jersey in the entertainment industry.
Notable attendees at the event included Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, and other local dignitaries, highlighting the significant community engagement with the project. The Lionsgate Studio will not only provide dedicated production space but will also house offices, support facilities, and extensive parking that can accommodate 145 cars, 22 trucks or trailers, and 11 RVs roughly spread over 12 acres of land.
Tim Lizura, Executive Vice President of Real Estate and Capital Projects at NJPAC, shared his excitement about this development, stating, 'As an organization dedicated to advancing the arts in Newark, the construction of Lionsgate Studio supports our mission to transform lives through artistic expression.'
John E. Anderson III, Business Leader of Gilbane's New Jersey office, emphasized the importance of this project to the local economy, saying, 'Gilbane has roots in New Jersey dating back to 1966, and it is fitting for us to take part in constructing the first film and television production studio of its kind in this state.' The studio is expected to greatly enhance the Newark business scene and contribute positively to the community for many years to come.
Gilbane’s notable history in the area includes the construction of several significant projects, such as the 50 Rector Park, the first market-rate residential tower erected in Newark in over half a century, along with the Prudential Center, the home stadium of the NHL’s New Jersey Devils.
In addition to creating jobs and boosting local economic growth, Gilbane aims to ensure diversity in its operations. The company plans to collaborate with a robust network of contractors from diverse backgrounds, aiming to allocate 25 percent of total construction contracts to Minority Business Enterprises and 7 percent to Women’s Business Enterprises. Also, 40 percent of the total worker hours are slated to be fulfilled by Newark residents, ensuring the community directly benefits from this project.
As a historic family-owned company founded in 1870, the Gilbane Building Company stands firm in its commitments to fostering lasting partnerships and creating safe, innovative spaces that serve the community. This project not only represents a significant investment in infrastructure but also serves as a foundational element for the future of Newark's entertainment industry.
Looking ahead, Lionsgate Studio is poised to attract various projects and productions, offering New Jersey a strategic edge in the competitive film and television landscape. With its advanced facilities and strong community ties, the studio is set to solidify Newark's place as a hub for creativity and innovation in the arts. This development signals a brighter future for the local economy and the creative sectors, marking a new era for New Jersey in the entertainment industry.
Topics Entertainment & Media）
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