On December 17, 2025, the New Jersey State Planning Commission (SPC) adopted an updated version of the New Jersey State Development and Redevelopment Plan, also known as the State Plan. This update was led by the New Jersey Office of Planning Advocacy (OPA) and the SPC. The new plan reflects planning priorities and practices that have emerged since the last update in 2001.
The State Plan offers guidance for land use, transportation, housing, environmental protection and enhancement, economic development, public infrastructure, historic preservation, social justice, and climate change adaptation. It is intended to guide state agencies as they develop their own functional plans and investment strategies. Local governments are expected to incorporate the plan’s objectives into their own planning efforts. The State Plan does not override existing local plans or regulations but aims to coordinate planning across different levels of government.
Alongside the adoption of the State Plan, the SPC released an Infrastructure Needs Assessment. This assessment evaluates current and projected conditions for state, county, and municipal capital facilities through 2030 where data was available. Sectors covered include transportation, energy, telecommunications, water supply, flood protection, solid waste management, healthcare, education at all levels including libraries, public safety, and housing. The assessment describes how federal, state, and local frameworks influence infrastructure investment decisions in New Jersey. It compiles information from recent planning documents and capital investment plans provided by state agencies. The 2025 Assessment estimates needs under steady-state, moderate progress, and aspirational scenarios to reflect a range of possible outcomes. Its main goals are to support long-term capital planning and help agencies base budgets on consistent methods.
The SPC also conducted an Impact Assessment for the updated State Plan using both quantitative and qualitative analysis. The quantitative review used over thirty years of geospatial data to determine that state planning has had a positive effect on development in New Jersey. Indicators from this data predict further positive impacts with implementation of the new plan. Qualitative analysis included a review of current planning literature and found that the updated plan aligns with modern principles in urban policy. According to this assessment: “the implementation of new State Plan will lead to prosperity, improved quality of life, and environmental preservation that will benefit all New Jerseyans.”
The Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy at Rutgers University is recognized for its research centers focused on community development and other areas relevant to public policy in New Jersey official website. The school has earned national rankings for its graduate urban planning program as well as its undergraduate public health program official website. Stuart Shapiro became dean of the Bloustein School in 2023 official website.
The Edward J. Bloustein School supports socially inclusive and environmentally sustainable communities locally and globally official website. As part of Rutgers University—the State University of New Jersey—the school recognizes distinguished alumni through its Hall of Fame established in 2013 official website.