Netflix Breaks Ground On $1B Studios At Fort Monmouth

Officials turn over a symbolic shovel of dirt as Netflix breaks ground on a $1 billion studio. (Photo courtesy NJ Governor’s Office)

  MONMOUTH COUNTY – Netflix officially broke ground at Fort Monmouth, starting construction for its new state-of-the-art production facility.

  The ceremony was held on May 13 at the 292-acre former US Army base. The company plans to invest $1 billion to transform the decade-long vacant site into a top-tier production hub on the East Coast. The space will feature 12 cutting-edge soundstages totaling nearly 500,000 square feet, with additional areas dedicated to supporting film uses and community amenities.

  “Netflix is proud to invest in American innovation and the creative community,” said Ted Sarandos, co-CEO of Netflix. “We estimate that these studios will create thousands of jobs for New Jersey residents, billions of dollars in economic output, and many other cultural benefits to the region and state. Over the past four years, Netflix has contributed $125 billion to the US economy and hired more than 140,000 cast and crew members. And we’re excited to continue our investment in the US and New Jersey in the coming years.”

  “As the birthplace of the motion picture industry, New Jersey couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome Netflix – a name synonymous with 21st century entertainment – to the Garden State,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “The Netflix studio at Fort Monmouth further solidifies New Jersey’s reputation as a global leader in film and television production, attracting some of the world’s top filmmakers and creators to the state. We are grateful to Netflix for choosing New Jersey as its new home on the East Coast and for committing to an investment that will fuel economic growth, generate thousands of new jobs, and bring more patrons to our local businesses.”

New Jersey officials attend the groundbreaking ceremony. (Photo courtesy Netflix)

  Other local officials in attendance included Eatontown Mayor Anthony Talerico Jr., Oceanport Mayor Thomas J. Tvrdik, New Jersey Speaker Craig Coughlin, Senator Vin Gopal, Senator Declan J. O’Scanlon Jr., and Monmouth County Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone, each expressing their support for the project.

  Netflix announced their plans back in 2022 and have since worked with the cities of Eatontown and Oceanport, as well as Monmouth County, to secure approvals for the initial phase. Demolition is expected to take around 13 months, with the studio slated to open in 2028. However, further approvals are required before construction can fully begin.

  The project is expected to create thousands of jobs, including permanent production jobs and construction-related positions.

  “With this groundbreaking, we’re not only building a studio; we’re also strengthening our ties with the community and paving the way for a vibrant production ecosystem in New Jersey,” Netflix stated.