The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Board has approved the first awards under the new Cultural Arts Facilities Expansion (CAFE) Program, dedicating over $104.8 million in tax credits to fund major expansions and renovations for two of the state’s most prominent cultural institutions: the Liberty Science Center (LSC) in Jersey City and the Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC) in Morristown.
The investments are designed to upgrade existing spaces, add new guest experiences, boost attendance, and serve as an economic catalyst for their host communities.
“New Jersey is home to a thriving arts and culture sector that strengthens our state’s economy and highlights our incredible diversity and talent,” Gov. Phil Murphy said. “The expansion of vibrant cultural institutions… will serve as an economic catalyst for communities across the state.”
The Liberty Science Center, located in Jersey City’s Liberty State Park, was approved for an award not to exceed $39.8 million (100% of eligible project costs). The renovation, dubbed “Project Supernova,” will transform the 300,000-square-foot interactive museum by:
- Adding over 100,000 square feet of new outdoor exhibition space.
- Rehabilitating current exhibitions, including the Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium, the largest and most technologically advanced planetarium in the Western Hemisphere.
- Creating a year-round, all-weather destination with new immersive science exhibits and cultural experiences.
The LSC currently serves more than 800,000 visitors annually. Paul Hoffman, President and CEO of Liberty Science Center, said the project is a “vibrant fusion of science, ecology, and culture, transforming the Center into an all-weather campus and world-class tourist destination.”
The Mayo Performing Arts Center in Morristown was approved for a maximum award of $65 million (100% of eligible project costs). MPAC is a historic 1,300-seat venue that currently attracts over 240,000 patrons annually and generates more than $18 million for the local economy.
The project will:
- Add over 31,000 square feet of new construction, including a new arts and education center, artist spaces, and studios.
- Renovate more than 16,000 square feet of existing spaces.
- Restore the 46,000-square-foot historic theater auditorium.
This expansion aims to significantly grow MPAC’s Performing Arts School and update its artistic offerings. “The awarding of $65 million in CAFE tax credits is a transformational opportunity for MPAC’s next phase in our evolution and further elevates Morristown as a premier arts destination in our state,” Allison Larena, president and CEO of MPAC said.
The CAFE Program provides tax credits up to $75 million to revitalize downtowns, attract visitors, and boost engagement with the arts by supporting the construction or renovation of cultural facilities across the state.
