Governor Phil Murphy has announced that his administration has invested over $1 billion in expanding access to affordable child care across New Jersey. This includes an additional $17 million allocated for the New Jersey Economic Development Authority's (NJEDA) Child Care Facilities Improvement Program, bringing the total investment in child care infrastructure to more than $140 million.
The announcement was made at a child care center in West Orange, which is benefiting from NJEDA funding. The program offers grants up to $200,000 for improvements to child care centers. So far, it has approved $85 million in grants to over 400 centers enrolling more than 34,000 children and employing over 8,500 staff. With the new funding, another 200 centers are expected to receive awards.
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 said. He credited the Biden-Harris Administration for providing federal support.
First Lady Tammy Murphy highlighted the initiative's role in promoting equitable early childhood environments as part of their Nurture NJ initiative. "Improvements to facilities move us closer to our goal of becoming the best state in the nation to raise a family," she stated.
The additional funds from the Federal American Rescue Plan will allow all eligible centers from Phase One of the program to be approved. The focus remains on expanding capacity for infants and toddlers with construction work overseen by registered contractors under prevailing wage laws.
Tim Sullivan, NJEDA Chief Executive Officer, remarked on the necessity of supporting financially stretched providers: “Reliable and high-quality child care services are critical to growth and success,” he said.
Congresswoman LaMonica McIver praised Governor Murphy’s investment as smart economic policy that empowers parents and benefits children’s early learning experiences.
Jorroys Reyes-Moton, Director of Kids Palace II, expressed gratitude for their grant enabling service expansion: “We are deeply grateful for this opportunity,” she said.
Human Services Commissioner Sarah Adelman noted that today’s announcement complements existing programs aimed at enhancing learning environments through NJEDA grants. Christine Norbut Beyer from the Department of Children and Families applauded ongoing investments supporting families with young children.
Mary E. Coogan from Advocates for Children of New Jersey recognized these facilities as fostering lifelong learning while Peg Kinsell from SPAN Parent Advocacy Network celebrated progress towards accessible high-quality childcare.
Sharon Roseboro from NJPTA acknowledged Governor Murphy's dedication: “This effort underscores his commitment," she stated. Jennifer S. Higgins from AFT New Jersey cited research predicting significant returns on this substantial financial investment in early childhood education.
