Newark 2035 Master Plan

Abstract

During the Fall of 2021, our team set off to create an urban planning vision for “Newark 2035,” with a focus on building a neighborhood around the Prudential Center to foster both social impact and outreach through job creation, economic growth, and impact investments. Our SPS Real World course gave us the opportunity to partner with Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment

(HBSE) and create a master plan that would serve as a long-term planning document that provides guidelines for the future growth and development of downtown Newark, New Jersey. By leveraging the adjacency to Newark Penn Station, infilling the numerous parking lots around the Prudential Center, and by connecting to the popular Ironbound and University Heights neighborhoods, we believe the area surrounding the Prudential Center will become an attractive destination point for those who live in the Tri-State area. Our master plan focuses on ground-up developments that highlight innovative uses, community engagement, and improved living standards. By expanding the breadth of activities and community spaces at and near the Prudential Center, we aim to draw patrons to eat, drink, and shop in the area benefitting residents through local activity and neighborhood amenities.

Over four development phases our plan will implement mixed-use, residential (market and affordable), retail, office, and hospitality property types among other community amenities like public outdoor spaces, theaters, schools, and community centers. Our plan also considers the New Jersey Governor’s Economic Recovery Bill – passed in December 2020 – that would provide up to $250 million per project under the Transitive Project Program. We plan to partner with local stakeholders such as parking lot owners, small businesses, property owners and the local community to improve the quality of life for all Newark residents, while also attracting new community members and visitors.

After careful consideration, analysis, and planning we believe our team has made meaningful strides towards creating a sustainable plan for Newark, New Jersey that will positively impact its residents. Over the course of the semester, we worked hard to present a plan that was reflective of our conversations with community members and local stakeholders. We hope that one day our findings will help catalyze the revitalization of Newark, New Jersey and create a positive impact for its community.