Is New Jersey becoming the new Hollywood?
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Bayone NJ, On a historic, snow-covered afternoon, officials gathered at the foot of the Bayonne Bridge to break ground on 1888 Studios—set to become the largest television and film production campus in New Jersey and one of the biggest in the United States.
Backbacked by industry giant Paramount, this $1.2 billion redevelopment of the former Texaco oil refinery site is more than just a construction project; it is a signal that the Garden State is reclaiming its title as the global birthplace of film.
A 1.6 Million-Square-Foot Entertainment Powerhouse
Developed by Togus Urban Renewal and designed by the world-renowned architecture firm Gensler, 1888 Studios is designed to evoke the “Golden Age” of Hollywood while providing cutting-edge “smart” technology for modern creators.
The campus highlights include:
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23 State-of-the-Art Smart Stages: Built for high-tech digital production.
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1.6 Million Square Feet: Total development area across the Bayonne waterfront.
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22-Acre Water Backlot: Providing unique filming opportunities for major motion pictures.
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10 Acres of Basecamp: Ample space for trailers, equipment, and logistics.
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Five-Story Parking Garage: On-site infrastructure to support thousands of workers.
Did You Know? The name “1888 Studios” is a tribute to Thomas Edison, who applied for the patent for the first motion picture camera in that very year—right here in New Jersey.
Paramount Signs Landmark 10-Year Lease
In a massive show of confidence for the New Jersey film tax credit program, Paramount has signed a minimum 10-year lease to serve as the anchor tenant. Paramount will occupy over 285,000 square feet, establishing a permanent East Coast hub for its global content production.
“This project represents another chapter in world-class production here in the Garden State,” said Governor Phil Murphy during the ceremony. “It will expand on New Jersey’s reputation as a premier creative hub on the East Coast.”
Economic Impact: Jobs, Jobs, and More Jobs
The transformation of the former Texaco brownfield site into a “global connector” is expected to be an economic engine for Hudson County:
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Construction: Over 2,300 union jobs to build the campus.
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Operations: More than 2,000 permanent union jobs once the studio is fully operational.
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Local ROI: The state expects roughly $7 in economic activity for every $1 spent in film and television incentives.
The New Jersey Film Renaissance
The groundbreaking of 1888 Studios follows recent major announcements from Netflix (Fort Monmouth) and Lionsgate (Newark). Together, these projects position New Jersey as a “Significant Global Player” in the entertainment industry.
Outgoing Bayonne Mayor Jimmy Davis, who grew up just four blocks from the site, noted the emotional weight of the project. “I can’t think of a better way to walk out the door than to set this city up for its future,” said Davis.
With Paramount now officially rooted in Bayonne, the “Jersey Chutzpah” that built the original film industry is back—and it’s bigger than ever.
Quick Facts: 1888 Studios
| Feature | Details |
| Location | Former Texaco Site, Bayonne, NJ |
| Anchor Tenant | Paramount (285k+ sq. ft.) |
| Total Investment | $1.2 Billion |
| Architect | Gensler |
| Key Features | 23 Smart Stages, 22-Acre Water Backlot |
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Was that “bring your wife to work” day?
Why the hell was Tammy Murphy there?
Can’t wait for her to go away.
She tried to buy a NJ Senate seat by getting the party line in each county.
That backfired in spectacular fashion.
Good for Democracy, good for NJ.
How’s Paulie’s Performing Arts Center coming along?
It’s been awfully quiet on the update front.