Netflix has received the last local approval needed to advance the final stage of its major film studio project at Fort Monmouth in Monmouth County. The plan includes clearing 47 buildings on a 79-acre site in Oceanport to create outdoor filming areas, production support zones, and new backlot space.
The structures set for demolition date back to the World War II era and were previously used as maintenance sheds, storage buildings, workshops and Army support facilities. Five older brick buildings will remain and be renovated for storage, equipment and maintenance operations.
The approval from the Oceanport Planning Board allows Netflix to move forward with the last section of its $903 million investment, which covers 289 acres across Oceanport and Eatontown. Work on the newly approved area is expected to begin next year, with the full project scheduled for completion by 2028.
What the Final Phase Includes
Once the demolition is complete, Netflix will convert the land into grass and gravel filming areas, crew trailer lots, makeup and wardrobe trailer zones, catering areas and support-vehicle staging. The plan also outlines new internal roads, driveways, landscaping buffers and updated stormwater management systems.
According to Netflix officials, the site will not operate every day. It will only be used when outdoor filming is scheduled, which will include temporary set construction and on-site security during production periods. Any filming activity must follow Oceanport’s lighting and noise restrictions.
A 289-Acre Production Hub Taking Shape
When completed, Netflix’s redevelopment of Fort Monmouth will include:
- 12 soundstages totaling nearly 500,000 square feet
- Production and office buildings
- A cafeteria and retail shops
- Trailer parks for staff and crews
- A theater
- A hotel and visitor areas
- Outdoor filming and backlot sections
The project is intended to position New Jersey as a major East Coast production center.
Residents Raise Concerns
During the planning board meeting, several Oceanport residents raised questions about increased traffic, noise, lighting and security. In response, Netflix agreed to expand landscaping buffers in some areas and maintain coordination with Monmouth County on roadway and signal improvements.
Netflix also stated that the newly approved backlot area will only be active during filming periods and will not operate daily. Production noise and lighting must comply with borough rules.
How We Got Here
Fort Monmouth, established in 1917 and closed in 2011, previously served as a communications and electronics research center for the U.S. Army. The final-phase buildings slated for demolition were part of the base’s former motor pool and public works yard.
The project has moved through approvals in stages:
Phase One
Approved last year, covering the McAfee Zone with four soundstages and production facilities.
Phase Two
Approved by Eatontown in September, creating the main entrance with eight additional soundstages, production offices and a public plaza.
Final Phase
Approved Wednesday in Oceanport, clearing 79 acres for outdoor filming space and support operations.
Construction of the final section is expected to begin in 2025.
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