New Jersey Future’s Response to Governor Murphy’s State of the State Address
TRENTON, January 14, 2025—Peter Kasabach, executive director, New Jersey Future comments: As Governor Phil Murphy delivered his final State of the State address, New Jersey Future applauded the progress our state has made under his leadership over the past seven years. His emphasis in today’s remarks on economic security and opportunity for every New Jerseyan is appropriate, aspirational, and will rely on investing in the future.
Advancing landmark affordable housing legislation last year that makes the municipal process more predictable and transparent was an excellent start. Now, the administration needs to provide the tools for towns to plan and develop this much-needed housing in ways that make communities more walk and bike-friendly, healthy, and safe. We were happy to hear that the Governor intends to work with the Legislature to advance statewide zoning reforms that will enable more housing to be built in the right places and right ways.
Supporting public transportation by initiating the new Hudson Tunnel and providing a large infusion of funding to NJ Transit are important accomplishments. Combining this with the recently signed Target Zero task force law signals a prioritization of safety, and we hope a greater commitment to creating safe bike and pedestrian infrastructure. As important as transportation is, it pales in comparison to the life-giving infrastructure that provides water to all of the state’s residents and businesses. We hope this year’s budget reflects this necessity and funds improvements to our ancient water infrastructure at appropriately high levels.
While a one-hour speech can only cover so many priorities, we were disappointed to hear nothing about adapting to climate change. This administration has made great strides in this area, including the proposed New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s Resilient Environments and Landscape (REAL) rules. We hope to hear more about this and other initiatives that will keep New Jersey at the forefront of this work and New Jerseyans out of harm’s way.
New Jersey Future remains steadfast in our commitment to working with state leaders, community partners, policymakers, and residents to create a more just, sustainable, and prosperous New Jersey. We look forward to working with this Legislature and administration to achieve shared goals that benefit all who call New Jersey home.
