Paramount to build 1.6 million-square-foot film campus in Bayonne
After almost a decade of negotiations, the space will soon become the largest campus-style production facility in the Northeast and one of the largest in the nation.
Some exciting news is set to come for Bayonne: Paramount is bringing a 1.6 million-square-foot film and production campus there and residents are ecstatic.
After almost a decade of negotiations, the space will soon become the largest campus-style production facility in the Northeast and one of the largest in the nation.
New Jersey is not a stranger to being on camera.
"There's been a lot of movies filmed here. Now we're bringing the movie industry to Bayonne," said Bayonne Mayor Jimmy Davis.
The campus, also known as 1888 Studios, will be born with the help of the New Jersey Film and Digital Media Tax Credit program.
The Bayonne site became the state’s first Film-Lease Partner Facility in May 2024.
Davis, who was born and raised in Bayonne, says about the introductory conversation with the buyers.
"A lot of people have given up on thinking that it's never gonna happen," said Davis.
The film and television industry is taking off in NJ, with the ongoing construction at Fort Monmouth and Lionsgate in Newark. Bayonne could potentially be the 'Netflix of the North ' as the Garden State can lean on New York City next door to get A-list actors and producers.
"Definitely need more security, because with celebrities come a lot of problems," said Val, who works at Cafe 26.
A 10-year lease will guarantee jobs - everything from lighting and grip to postproduction and security.
"The factories and businesses have left since 1990. Now it's time to bring the new type of businesses back to Bayonne," Davis said.
