TRENTON, N.J. — Governor Phil Murphy’s administration on Friday announced the release of a preliminary draft of New Jersey’s updated State Development and Redevelopment Plan, marking the first comprehensive revision of the plan since 2001. The State Planning Commission unanimously approved the draft, setting the stage for a public review process early next year.
The updated plan outlines a vision for guiding New Jersey’s growth across ten priorities, including economic development, housing, infrastructure, environmental justice, and climate resilience. It aims to align state, county, and municipal land-use policies to achieve balanced growth and equitable development across the state.
The updated Draft Plan adds a new focus on environmental justice and builds upon the State’s ongoing initiatives to address the following areas:
- Economic Development
- Equity
- Climate Change
- Housing
- Infrastructure
- Revitalization and Recentering
- Natural and Water Resources
- Pollution and Environmental Clean-Up
- Historic and Scenic Resources
- Comprehensive Planning
“We are taking a significant step forward in shaping New Jersey’s future,” Governor Murphy said. “This plan reflects decades of progress and underscores our commitment to balanced growth, equitable development, and opportunity for all New Jerseyans.”
A two-month public comment period beginning February 12, 2025, will include public meetings in every county to gather feedback from residents and local officials. This cross-acceptance process will compare municipal, county, and state land-use plans with the draft plan to promote consistency in development goals.
The new draft incorporates an increased focus on environmental justice and sustainability, building on earlier state initiatives. “New Jersey has a strong tradition of planning for the future,” said Tom Wright, chair of the State Planning Commission. “By updating the State Development and Redevelopment Plan, we are ensuring future generations have the resources and strategies to manage growth that is both sustainable and equitable.”
The preliminary plan emphasizes resilience to climate change, protection of natural resources, equitable housing opportunities, and revitalization of urban and suburban areas. Public input will play a critical role in shaping the final version, expected to guide development efforts for decades to come.
New Jersey moves closer to a modern, inclusive vision for growth with the release of its updated State Plan.