The New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) has officially begun the $336-million redevelopment of its 12-acre campus in downtown Newark. This ambitious project will introduce a variety of new features, including residential units, retail spaces, outdoor gathering areas, and an education and community center equipped with professional rehearsal facilities.
Expected to be completed by fall 2027, the transformed campus will feature ArtSide – a mixed-use development created through collaboration between NJPAC, LMXD and MCI Collective. The renowned architectural firm Skidmore Owings & Merrill (SOM) is responsible for planning and designing ArtSide which will consist of 350 rental units. Of these units, 20% are designated as affordable housing while the remaining space includes retail outlets and cultural venues.
According to Julia Murphy – partner at SOM – this revitalized neighborhood aims to promote inclusivity by providing affordable housing options alongside pedestrian pathways that connect various cultural spaces on the NJPAC campus. With this exciting redevelopment project underway , NJPAC is set to become an even more vibrant hub for arts and education in Newark.
