Netflix Emerges As Top Bidder For Studio Complex In N.J.
New Jersey is about to become a bigger player in the movie world. Netflix won its bid to build its studio complex in New Jersey at the former Fort Monmouth Army base. The media giant says they have been selected as the “preferred choice for the Fort Monmouth development project is our proposal for a state-of-the-art production complex,” per NJ Advance Media. The company said in a statement Wednesday (Oct. 12) that there is “still work to be done” on the deal with state and local leaders.
“If our plans are approved, we hope to build a facility that will create significant economic impact and job growth for New Jersey, a state loaded with creative talent and technical expertise,” a Netflix spokesperson said.
“Governor Murphy is delighted to hear that Netflix is interested in establishing a serious presence in New Jersey,” The governor’s office said in a statement. “He looks forward to working with them and the rest of the industry to create good-paying jobs and spur economic growth throughout the state.”
We previously reported that there were some mixed reactions to Netflix coming to the Garden State.
Resident Don Solecki spoke to the news outlet about how Netflix’s takeover could bring more opportunities to those looking to get their foot in the door working in media. “We think it’s going to bring a lot of jobs to the area. Also get rid of all those abandoned, dilapidated buildings,” he told NBC at the time.
Others are concerned about the noise that could potentially be made from the production of new television shows and films.
“They have a fair over there every year. I don’t mind the fair, but it’s loud and it goes on late at night,” said resident Ben Towner, per the outlet. “Without an assurance that they would be a good neighbor and tenant of the space, it’s difficult to say whether I’m thumbs up or thumbs down on that.”
A group named “No 2 Netflix” had one member speak to the local news outlet on why they disagree about Netflix’s potential development. They clarified that they are not “specifically anti-Netflix, just fearful the community would be subjected to over-promising and under-delivering on economic benefits.”
They added that it, “has happened in other towns when other film production companies try to move in.”
Netflix was one of four bidders for the former army base. At least two of the anonymous bidders have “proposed resident and retail space,” NBC reported.
The media giant did not disclose how much they proposed for bid.
