1888 Studios Breaks Ground: A New Era for Northern NJ's Film Industry

Breaking Ground for the Future of Film in New Jersey

The long-awaited groundbreaking ceremony for 1888 Studios in Bayonne heralds a transformative era in the state’s film and television production landscape. On December 16, 2025, state officials, including Governor Phil Murphy, celebrated this monumental project designed to position New Jersey as a significant competitor in the entertainment industry, rivalling even Hollywood. Understanding the vast potential of the creative economy, this 1.6 million square foot campus anticipates becoming the largest film and television facility in the Northeast.

Why 1888 Studios Matters for New Jersey

Named after the year Thomas Edison patented the motion film camera, 1888 Studios represents more than just physical infrastructure; it symbolizes a resurgence of the Golden Age of Hollywood in New Jersey. With 23 sound stages featuring 40-foot ceilings, the studios aim to attract both local and international filmmakers, ultimately generating thousands of jobs and stimulating the bustling economy of cities across northern New Jersey, from Sussex County NJ to Sparta Township.

Community Impact and Job Creation

The economic implications of 1888 Studios stretch across the Garden State as the project will be built by union labor, creating jobs for construction workers that extend beyond the filmmaking community. As Arpad Busson, chairman of Togus Urban Renewal, noted during the ceremony, the project is set to invigorate small businesses as well. The project aligns with New Jersey's recent historical growth in film production, with the state seeing the most significant increase in filming activities and spend compared to anywhere else in the United States.

Attracting Major Partnerships

The commitment from Paramount Pictures, which has signed a 10-year lease for more than 285,000 square feet within the complex, underscores the faith major players have in New Jersey's promising film industry. This partnership is indicative of broader trends as established production companies recognize the value and opportunity that 1888 Studios will offer. Governor Murphy emphasized that such expansions will undoubtedly empower local filmmakers in communities like Andover Borough and Franklin Borough to gain recognition on a global platform.

Embracing New Tax Incentives

Key to the studio's appeal are the financial incentives provided through New Jersey’s Film and Digital Media Tax Credit program. Recent enhancements to this program enable production companies to access competitive incentives that are conducive to large-scale operations. By offering up to a 40% tax credit on production expenses, New Jersey joins the ranks of other global production hubs, making it a compelling destination for filmmakers.

The Bigger Picture: New Jersey’s Film Renaissance

As seen with the concurrent development of additional facilities like the Lionsgate Newark film studio and Netflix’s Fort Monmouth studio, New Jersey is not just emerging but truly ascending in the film industry landscape. This progressive push will continue to solidify New Jersey’s reputation as not merely "Hollywood East" but as a legitimate home for film production. The excitement surrounding projects like 1888 Studios is palpable, and with a robust array of services, this campus is primed to redefine the industry in a state known for its rich cinematic history.