Governor Phil Murphy announced a significant investment in New Jersey's child care sector, with over $1 billion allocated since the start of his administration. This includes an additional $17 million from the American Rescue Plan to enhance and expand child care facilities through the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Child Care Facilities Improvement Program.
The program provides grants to eligible child care providers for facility improvements, awarding up to $200,000 per center. To date, $85 million has been approved for over 400 centers serving more than 34,000 children and employing over 8,500 staff. The recent funding is expected to benefit another 200 centers across all New Jersey counties.
Governor Murphy emphasized the importance of this investment: “Affordable, exceptional child care is a vital part of a stronger and fairer New Jersey economy.” He credited the Biden-Harris Administration for their support in expanding access to critical resources.
First Lady Tammy Murphy highlighted the impact on future generations: “Access to high-quality child care is a critical piece of our Nurture NJ initiative.” She noted that improvements will help make New Jersey the best state for raising a family.
The NJEDA anticipates approving all eligible applications from Phase One of its program with this new funding. A focus remains on increasing capacity within centers, particularly for infants and toddlers. All construction work will adhere to prevailing wage standards.
Tim Sullivan, NJEDA Chief Executive Officer, stated: “Reliable and high-quality child care services are critical to the growth and success of New Jersey’s economy.” Congresswoman LaMonica McIver echoed these sentiments, calling it smart economic policy that empowers parents and supports early learning experiences.
Jorroys Reyes-Moton, Director of The Kids Palace II in West Orange, expressed gratitude for the grant which helped expand their services: “We are deeply grateful for this opportunity.”
Human Services Commissioner Sarah Adelman praised the commitment to quality providers and announced complementary wage increases and subsidies: “These NJEDA grants will empower child care providers.”
Christine Norbut Beyer from the Department of Children and Families applauded ongoing investments supporting families' stability: “It gives young learners a foundation for academic success later in life.”
Mary E. Coogan from Advocates for Children of New Jersey acknowledged that these environments are more than buildings—they foster lifelong learning. Peg Kinsell from SPAN Parent Advocacy Network celebrated progress towards ensuring access to high-quality child care.
Sharon Roseboro from NJPTA commended Governor Murphy's dedication: "This effort underscores Governor Murphy’s dedication to ensuring educational success." Jennifer S. Higgins from AFT New Jersey predicted long-lasting effects on academic achievement due to this substantial financial investment.
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