Government
On Dec 6, 2024
The State Planning Commission has approved publication of the Preliminary Draft Plan of the State Development and Redevelopment Plan, marking the first time the plan has been updated since 2001.
Used as a guide to inform the public and encourage state agencies, counties, and municipalities to align their land use policies with its vision, the plan promotes a balanced and inclusive strategy for managing and guiding growth across the state. It is centered on 10 key land use priorities, including: economic development; housing; infrastructure; revitalization and recentering; climate change; natural and water resources; pollution and environmental cleanup; historic and scenic resources; equity; and comprehensive planning.
“The State Plan reflects decades of progress and underscores our commitment to balanced growth, equitable development, and opportunity for all New Jerseyans,” said Gov. Phil Murphy.
According to Ray Cantor, deputy chief government affairs officer of the New Jersey Business & Industry Association, the business community supports the plan. “If done right, it will not only protect ecologically sensitive lands but will designate lands where we can develop and grow and build the affordable housing we need,” Cantor said.
He added that he was pleased to see that the plan did not specifically reference incorporation of DEP’s proposed Inundation Risk Zones, although it did state that it would defer to DEP on making these decisions.
“If DEP moves forward with their rule proposal and if it is subsequently incorporated into the State Plan, it will undermine its development, housing, and other economic goals,” Cantor said.
DEP Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette commented, ”Alongside our local government partners, the DEP plays a leading role in implementing the smart growth mindset of the State Plan while ensuring site-specific consistency with New Jersey’s flood safety, water quality, and land resource protection laws. It helps to guide the development and redevelopment of residential and commercial centers more resilient to the challenges of our changing climate, including risks of drought, wildfire, and flooding.”
Two past attempts to finalize a State Development and Redevelopment Plan failed under the administrations of Gov. Jon Corzine and Gov. Chris Christie. Gov. Murphy has said he wants a plan finalized before he leaves office at the end of next year.
The Department of State’s Office of Planning Advocacy began outreach last year to develop the draft. Starting Feb. 12, 2025, an intensive two-month public comment period will feature meetings in every county. These hearings will continue through April 16, 2025, and initiate a cross-acceptance process, comparing municipal, county, and state land use plans with the State Plan to achieve maximum consistency across all levels of government.
Read the full Preliminary Draft of the State Development and Redevelopment Plan here.
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