TRENTON, N.J. – The New Jersey Business & Industry Association (NJBIA) and its flagship publication, New Jersey Business Magazine, have recognized 10 development projects across the state with the 2025 New Good Neighbor Awards.
Now in its 65th year, the awards honor projects that not only stimulate economic growth but also strengthen neighborhoods through innovation, redevelopment, and community impact.
NJBIA President & CEO Michele Siekerka praised the winners for their contributions to New Jersey’s economy and quality of life:
“The winning projects have created about $400 million in capital improvements, more than 1,500 construction jobs and nearly 800 permanent jobs, providing valuable assets and generating tremendous economic activity.”
Siekerka added that the honorees highlight the power of business investment to uplift entire communities:
“These winning projects improve our quality of life, revitalize neighborhoods, provide valuable services and resources and bring communities together. And it shows what can happen when we put business at the center. We are grateful for the benefits these projects have brought to New Jersey and congratulate the winners.”
A Diverse Range of Projects
This year’s honorees reflect New Jersey’s wide-ranging economic sectors—from healthcare and financial services to entertainment, housing, and logistics.
Revitalized Headquarters & Workspaces
- Phelps Construction Group’s new HQ in Denville turned a neglected property into a vibrant, 10,000-square-foot office and warehouse facility, employing 317 construction workers and adding 28 full-time staff.
Cultural & Educational Landmarks
- The NJ Hall of Fame Entertainment & Learning Center at American Dream features holograms of music icons, immersive exhibits, and interactive rides celebrating New Jersey legends. The $20 million facility has created dozens of jobs while boosting East Rutherford tourism.
Logistics & Industrial Growth
- Crow Holdings at Carteret converted a former brownfield site into a 1.2 million-square-foot warehouse property, supporting global transport firms and bringing 350 permanent jobs.
- CenterPoint at Linden replaced a struggling retail space with a modern 321,765-square-foot distribution hub, incorporating sustainability features like EV-charging infrastructure and solar-ready roofing.
Community Parks & Recreation
- Veterans Park in Monroe Township now boasts new facilities, including restrooms, storage, and expanded sports amenities—making it more family- and event-friendly.
- Lord Stirling Park Stable in Somerset County replaced an outdated barn with a 6,300-square-foot equestrian facility, supporting therapy programs, horse boarding, and park services.
Housing & Redevelopment
- The Nell in Dunellen brought new life to a long-vacant industrial site with a $54 million mixed-use redevelopment, delivering 252 apartments, 130 townhomes, and retail space that extends the town’s walkable downtown.
Healthcare Expansion
- Saint Peter’s Family Health Center in New Brunswick doubled its clinical space, added new community services, and created 118 full-time jobs while providing food, career resources, and wellness programs to patients.
Modern Office & Financial Hubs
- Bleakley Financial Group’s HQ in Parsippany provides a flexible, sustainable, and tech-driven office space that fosters collaboration while elevating client experience.
Creative Industries
- Black Swallowtail Studios in Eatontown, founded by Erik Massimino, has expanded into a 3,000-square-foot production facility supporting video, podcasting, photography, and training programs—helping local artists and businesses thrive.
Broader Impact
The 2025 New Good Neighbor Awards showcase New Jersey’s evolving economy, where development projects are not only building infrastructure but also driving community engagement, sustainability, and innovation.
According to NJBIA, the winning projects collectively represent:
- $400 million in capital investment
- 1,500+ construction jobs
- 800 permanent jobs created
- Enhanced cultural, healthcare, housing, and recreational assets for residents
The full summaries of each winning project, along with details on the selection criteria, are published in the July 2025 issue of New Jersey Business Magazine.
Originally reported by Insider NJ.