State of New Jersey Department of Community Affairs
09/19/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/19/2024 13:58
Governor's Conference on Housing and Economic Development Announces 2024 Excellence and Hall of Fame Award Winners
Governor's Conference on Housing and Economic Development Announces 2024 Excellence and Hall of Fame Award Winners
- Posted on: 09/19/2024
TRENTON, NJ -The Governor's Conference on Housing and Economic Development is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2024 Governor's Excellence in Housing and Economic Development Awards. These awards were presented during a special ceremony on September 18th at the conference to recognize outstanding contributions to housing and economic development across the State of New Jersey.
Commissioner Jacquelyn A. Suárez of the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs stated, "The Governor's Excellence in Housing and Economic Development Awards honor individuals and organizations whose visionary work in revitalization, adaptive reuse, economic development, and housing are creatively transforming communities. Through job creation, economic growth, and the development of high-quality, affordable housing they are improving lives and strengthening neighborhoods. Their commitment to excellence and innovation stands as a beacon of progress, inspiring us all to build a better tomorrow together. Congratulations to each of the winners for their outstanding contributions and the positive impact they continue to make."
The Governor's Excellence in Housing and Economic Development Awards celebrate individuals, organizations, and projects that align with the core missions of the Governor's Conference on Housing and Economic Development Coordinating Agencies: the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA), the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Financing Agency (NJHMFA), and the New Jersey Redevelopment Authority (NJRA).
President and CEO Leslie A. Anderson of the New Jersey Redevelopment Authority emphasized the importance of these awards: "These awards allow us to celebrate individuals and organizations that exemplify the highest standards of innovation and dedication. Their contributions set a benchmark for others, proving that with commitment and determination, we can build a stronger and fairer New Jersey.
The awards encompass seven categories, and dozens of applications were reviewed to select the final roster of award recipients for this year.
The Leading Neighborhood Revitalization Partnership Award recognizes collaborative efforts that effectively revitalize and transform neighborhoods, bringing about positive change and revitalization.
The Adaptive Reuse Transformation Award honors projects that creatively repurpose existing structures, preserving historical and architectural significance while contributing to economic growth and community revitalization.
The Innovative Economic Development Award acknowledges groundbreaking initiatives that promote economic prosperity, job creation, and sustainable development.
The Excellence in Housing Development Award recognizes exceptional projects that provide high-quality, affordable housing options to meet the diverse needs of residents.
Executive Director Melanie Walter of the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency noted, "This year's award winners exemplify the spirit of innovation we see shaping New Jersey development each day. These projects demonstrate how sound planning and strategic investment in services, amenities and resilience can cultivate a better built environment for every individual and family in our state."
The Senator Ronald L. Rice Impact Award pays tribute to nonprofits, individuals, or organizations that have made significant impacts on housing, economic development, or community improvement.
The Small Business of Distinction Awards acknowledge the achievements of small businesses that have demonstrated excellence, innovation, and a positive impact on their communities, showcasing their vital role in driving economic growth and local development.
Finally, the Housing and Economic Development Hall of Fame Award was also presented on September 18th. This award recognizes trailblazers in the housing and economic development fields, including those who work to create, finance, and develop affordable housing and economic growth opportunities, as well as individuals who advocate, lead, and educate the public on the issues.
"Governor Phil Murphy has prioritized results-driven and equitable real estate and economic development initiatives throughout his tenure, and today's award winners honor the individuals, organizations, and projects that are leading the way in New Jersey," said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan.
The 2024 Governor's Excellence in Housing and Economic Development Award winners are:
Housing and Economic Development Hall of Fame Award:
Diane Riley, Executive Director, Supportive Housing Association of New Jersey
Leading Neighborhood Revitalization Partnership Award:
Autumn Ridge at Manitou Park, Homes for All, Toms River, Ocean County
Adaptive Reuse Transformation Award:
Village at Harmony Garden, Pennrose, Glassboro, Gloucester County
Innovative Economic Development Award:
JBJ Soul Kitchen, JBJ Soul Foundation, Red Bank & Toms River, Monmouth County
Diane RileyExecutive Director Supportive Housing Association of New Jersey Housing and Economic Development Hall of Fame Award Winner l-r Darryl Godfrey, NJRA, Tai Cooper, NJEDA, Leslie Anderson, NJRA, Melanie Walter, NJHMFA, Diane Riley, Jacquelyn Suárez, NJDCA, Kia King, NJDCA, Terry Tucker, NJHMFA. |
Excellence in Housing Development Awards:
Rental Project: Branchburg Senior Apartments, Walters Cornerstone Development, Branchburg, Somerset County
Homeownership Project: West Ward New Homes Initiative Redevelopment Project, James Gist, Newark, Essex County
Small Business of Distinction Awards:
Retail: Tinkypoo Diapers, Nadiyah Spencer, President & CEO, Statewide
Food & Hospitality: The Gingered Peach, Joanne Canady-Brown, Lawrenceville, Mercer County
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Bridget Phifer
Chief Executive Officer Bridget Phifer pictured center in blue |
The Governor's Conference on Housing and Economic Development brings together government officials, industry leaders, and stakeholders to discuss strategies, innovations, and policies aimed at advancing housing opportunities and economic development in New Jersey. The conference is a platform for collaboration and knowledge-sharing, fostering partnerships that drive positive change in our state.
For more information about the Governor's Conference on Housing and Economic Development, please visit NJHousingConference.com or email [email protected].
For more information about DCA, visit https://nj.gov/dca/ or follow the Department on social media: