Department of Transportation


New Jersey Future In Transportation

Economic Vitality

Main streets and town centers are the economic hubs of New Jersey. They bring together a variety of workers, making it possible for the exchange of information and goods. A town with a strong core encourages development of retail and cultural institutions that create a lively neighborhood with a high "quality of place." They help boost real estate values while making it easier to get around without a car, thereby reducing stress on our road system. NJFIT supports reinvesting in New Jersey's downtowns.

Downtowns spur economic growth
The way downtowns manage transportation needs has a big impact on their success as economically viable and livable towns. Thousands of workers need to commute to work every day. Materials must be delivered to factories and finished goods to markets. Compact, mixed-use development increases companies' accessibility to labor, materials and sites which reduce their transportation costs.

Studies have shown that more compact areas - particularly those served by efficiently integrated transportation systems - enjoy higher productivity levels, employment rates and median incomes.

Walkable downtowns are good for people and business
Communities that invest in the improvement of walking conditions and downtown areas see significant increases in retail sales and property values. These improvements help the local economy and make a pleasant, lively safe neighborhood with a high quality of life for the people who live and work there.

Strong downtowns benefit the entire region
When central city income grows and poverty decreases, metropolitan areas experience an increase in incomes, housing prices and municipal revenues. On the other hand, when urban centers are left to decay, the entire region is weakened. A recent study found that states with higher-density counties are more productive on a state level.

washington borough photo
A variety of businesses are drawn to the walkable, community-oriented downtown in Washington Borough, Warren County, NJ.
city market photo
Vibrant urban centers and markets are signs of economic vitality.
NJPAC photo
Since the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) opened in Newark in 1997, millions of people have come to visit. The building is designed to encourage foot traffic and has improved the public's impression of Newark. According to National Redevelopment Real Estate, in 1997, only 20 percent of office buildings in Newark's downtown were occupied; by 2001, 80 percent were occupied.

The Tools and Case Studies best associated with the
Economic Vitality FITness goal is listed below in the drop down boxes. Achieving this goal is possible through the application of various tools and programs.


     


Last updated date: October 10, 2019 1:47 PM