NJ Gov. Sees Redevelopment as Key to Growth

EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ-New Jersey’s quality of life is at stake, and “we are committed to a strong and expanding economy,” was the message delivered by Gov. Jon Corzine at a public policy symposium sponsored here yesterday by the New Jersey Chapter of NAIOP. Discussing issues ranging from tax reform to eminent domain, Corzine tied success to “improving the climate of what people think of government.”

Corzine pointed out that his administration has reduced corporate taxes to the tune of $368 million, citing the traffic “on the bridges across the Delaware River to Pennsylvania” at quitting time as the impetus, simultaneously reflecting on the state’s need “to be competitive.” At the same time, he emphasized that his administration wants to continue in the “smart growth” vein, prioritizing redevelopment as the focus for ongoing economic growth.

“I have to say we have a lot of work to do” in terms of putting the state’s financial house in order, Corzine told attendees. “A lot of good things are going on and a lot is on the drawing board.”