Government & Public Policy

From zoning disputes to the federal tax code, public policy affects the commercial real estate sector far more than you may realize. For industry leaders, government and politics demand constant attention.

Relaxed deadlines could bring new attention, momentum to Opportunity Zone projects

The COVID-19 pandemic has threatened to stall many development projects nationwide, including those under the federal Opportunity Zone program, but experts say those investments could gain new momentum after a series of recent steps by regulators.

DMR touts start of addition, renovation at county courthouse in Freehold

Construction is underway on a renovation and addition to the Monmouth County Courthouse in Freehold, in a project designed by DMR Architects.

Resident protection bill would have ‘devastating’ impact on property taxes, operations, NJAA says

The state Assembly has passed a bill that would shield residents from eviction and require landlords to create payment plans for past due rent during the pandemic, drawing renewed criticism from the apartment industry.

A fresh look

You wouldn’t know it by the last four months, but major news stories are always prone to ebbs and flows. The federal Opportunity Zone program is a case in point when it comes to commercial real estate publications. The investment vehicle has been all the rage at various points since it was created in late 2017, only to take a step back as buzz died down.

BNE, local officials break ground on first phase of major redevelopment in South Amboy

BNE Real Estate has broken ground on a 291-unit residential building in South Amboy, the first piece of a sweeping waterfront redevelopment that will yield nearly 2,000 new apartments.

Newark approvals include tax abatement for second ‘Shaq Tower’

A proposed 370-unit apartment tower in Newark has secured a 30-year tax abatement, as city officials move to advance a series of planned developments despite the pandemic.

Kolakowski named NJBA chief executive

The New Jersey Builders Association has tapped a longtime member of its leadership and government affairs team as its new CEO.

State seeking new bids, proposals for 80-acre ‘gateway’ parcel at Fort Monmouth

One of the top parcels at the former Fort Monmouth site is back on the market, as state officials seek a new plan for bringing residential and commercial uses to the 80-acre development site.

Engineering group honors PS&S water treatment expert, a 60-year industry veteran

A veteran engineer and architect with PS&S has earned a top honor from the American Society of Civil Engineers’ New Jersey section.

How can state and local leaders help bring new foot traffic to their downtowns?

How can state and local leaders help bring new foot traffic to their downtowns? We assembled a panel of industry experts to tackle this month’s question.