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Spring is here, and with it comes new energy and new opportunities for our downtowns.
I’m excited to welcome you to the latest edition of the Downtown New Jersey newsletter, where we’re sharing updates, ideas, and resources to help you and your communities thrive.
As we look ahead, we want to make sure our work
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reflects what matters most to you. That’s why we’re launching a Member Survey — your chance to tell us what you need, what’s working, and where we can do more.
Your feedback will help us plan future conferences, shape upcoming programs, and drive our advocacy efforts.
Plus, by completing the survey, you’ll be entered to win a professionally produced Social Media Reel from Media X Marketing, valued at $1,000 — a great way to showcase your downtown!
Take a few minutes and share your thoughts with us using the button below!
We can’t wait to hear from you.
Thanks for being part of the Downtown New Jersey community and for all you do to keep our downtowns vibrant and strong.
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Plainfield, New Jersey is laying the groundwork for a revitalized downtown, and the early signs are encouraging. With a renewed focus on collaboration, placemaking, and business attraction, the Downtown Plainfield Special Improvement District (SID) is putting bold plans into action. MORE>
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As travel trends shift in 2025, downtowns throughout New Jersey have a unique opportunity to differentiate themselves and attract tourists seeking authentic experiences. Today’s travelers are no longer just looking for beautiful places—they’re seeking meaningful and memorable experiences. MORE>
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The New Jersey Business Action Center (NJBAC), working in collaboration with the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), the Office of Innovation, and other community-based partners, created the New Jersey Small Business Manual in 2024. The Manual serves as a written source for learning about how to plan, start, operate, and grow a business in New Jersey. MORE>
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The new Bob Dylan biopic “A Complete Unknown” is the latest in a line of movies to be filmed in Hoboken. From the upcoming “The History of Sound” to classics like “On the Waterfront,” the Mile Square City is no stranger to hosting film sets. This, in large part, is due to its well-maintained 19th-century streetscape and rich architectural preservation. MORE>
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The North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA) is accepting applications for its Planning for Emerging Centers Program, which helps municipalities advance plans for walkable, transit-supportive, and economically vibrant communities. The deadline to apply is June 19, 2025. MORE>
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Starbucks recently reversed its open-door policy that allowed members of the public to utilize seating and bathroom facilities without the requirement of making a purchase. The move reflects a growing concern about loitering, disruptive behavior, and even drug use, which has surfaced inside Starbucks locations creating an uncomfortable environment for paying customers and staff. MORE>
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Restaurants across the state thrive on a system where tips are a meaningful part of take-home pay. But now, Assembly Bill A5433 threatens to upend that system.
The bill would eliminate the tip wage and require employers to pay tipped workers the full minimum wage before tips. MORE>
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Friday, June 13, 2025 at 10:45AM (Garden State B)
In-Person Day, Hyatt Regency, New Brunswick
The landscape of downtown and commercial corridor planning is rapidly evolving, shaped by shifts in consumer behavior, technological advancements, and policy changes. This session will explore new and emerging trends such as adaptive reuse of retail spaces, micro-retail and flexible storefronts, curbside management strategies, 15-minute cities, AI-driven urban planning tools, and evolving land use policies. MORE>
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Retail Reset: Trends Shaping the Future of Downtowns
Thursday, June 26, 2025 at 12:00PM
Virtual via Zoom
Join Downtown New Jersey for a dynamic panel discussion featuring experts in development, retail strategy, design, and dealmaking. This session will explore emerging retail trends impacting walkable downtowns, strategies for attracting and retaining tenants, and the evolving relationship between restaurants and retail. MORE>
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TOD in Your Downtown Forum: Gentle Density: Unlocking the Missing Middle in Housing
This event, hosted by NJTOD, Downtown New Jersey, and NJ TRANSIT’s Transit Friendly Planning (TFP) Program brought together experts from public agencies, nonprofit organizations, and local governments will share their experiences and strategies for expanding diverse housing options while preserving neighborhood character. Recording Coming Soon!
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The virtual event - which took place April 24th explored how evolving restaurant trends are shaping the future of downtowns. Industry leaders and policy experts discussed labor challenges, consumer behavior shifts, and innovative business models driving economic revitalization. Miss the live session? Rewatch HERE>
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Creating Vibrant Downtowns: Balancing People, Parking and Deliveries
During this virtual listening session with NJTPA that took place in March, 2025, we listened to feedback on what works (and what needs to improve!) in the transportation system we use every day. This session focused on striking a balance between the people and services that use our downtown spaces. MORE>
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TOD in Your Downtown Forum: Affordable Housing + TOD: Obligations and Opportunities
This event, hosted by NJTOD, Downtown New Jersey, and NJ TRANSIT’s Transit Friendly Planning (TFP) Program brought together experts from public agencies, nonprofit organizations, and the private sector to share their experiences with affordable housing in downtowns across New Jersey. Miss the live session? Rewatch HERE>
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Get SOCIAL with US!
Downtown New Jersey recently launched its Instagram account! Follow us @downtownnj for exclusive video content, member spotlights, program announcements and MORE!
And don't forget to follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn to stay connected, expand your network, and learn more about how we can work together to create thriving downtowns!
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Help us help you!
Our ability to continue to advocate for New Jersey’s downtowns during these especially challenging times depends on member support. We hope you will consider joining today! JOIN DNJ>
| | | | Downtown New Jersey is an organization of individuals, businesses, government agencies, and local and regional organizations that are passionate about downtowns. Downtowns reflect our communities’ unique identities, provide a focal point, a convenient local place of commerce, and offer a sense of place where people can gather and truly be community. Downtown New Jersey is a resource dedicated to ensuring the vitality of our downtowns. Count on us as your resource for anything regarding downtowns in New Jersey. | | | | |
