Governor's Conference on Housing and Economic Development Announces 2025 Excellence in Housing and Economic Development Awards

• Posted on: 09/10/2025

TRENTON, NJ – The Governor's Conference on Housing and Economic Development (GCHED) is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2025 Governor's Excellence in Housing and Economic Development Awards. The presentation of these awards will happen during a special ceremony on September 17, 2025, at the Governor's Excellence in Housing and Economic Development Awards Brunch. This brunch will recognize the outstanding contributions to housing and economic development across the State of New Jersey.

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: New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA), New Jersey Redevelopment Authority (NJRA), New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), and New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Financing Agency (NJHMFA).

“Each of this year’s honorees reflects the power of vision paired with persistence. Their work shows us what is possible when public, private, and nonprofit partners commit to building stronger communities together,” said New Jersey Department of Community Affairs Acting Commissioner Kia King. “These awards are not just acknowledgments of past achievements; they’re reminders that innovation and equity must guide the next chapter of housing and economic development in New Jersey.”

Emphasizing the importance of these awards, President and CEO of the New Jersey Redevelopment Authority Leslie A. Anderson said, “These awards provide an opportunity for professionals in the housing, community development, economic development, and small business spaces to recognize and acknowledge the great work of their peers. This year’s awards demonstrate the remarkable work that we in State government know is taking place across this state. We can honor more established developers while also creating space for emerging developers and small businesses to receive recognition for the work they do.”

The awards encompass seven categories and this year the conference received the largest number of nominations to date. All were reviewed to select the final roster of award recipients for this year.

“Under Governor Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey has invested in impactful and equitable real estate and economic development initiatives throughout the state, supporting job creation, neighborhood revitalization, and improved quality of life,” said New Jersey Economic Development Authority Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “Today's award winners honor the individuals, organizations, and projects that are at the forefront of real estate and economic development in the state.”

The Leading Neighborhood Revitalization Partnership Award recognizes collaborative efforts that effectively revitalize and transform neighborhoods, bringing about positive change.

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.

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.

Melanie Walter, executive director of the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency, stated, “The 2025 winners of the Governor’s Excellence in Housing and Economic Development exemplify the innovative strategies that New Jersey's development community uses to deliver results in a constantly evolving real estate market. Our honorees this year join a distinguished group of builders and developers who have risen to the challenge of producing communities, amenities, and economic opportunity New Jerseyans of all backgrounds and generations can find and enjoy.”

Conference attendees are invited to celebrate these phenomenal winners at the Hall of Fame Award & Governor's Excellence in Housing and Economic Development Awards Brunch on September 17, 2025, as a part of the Governor’s Conference on Housing and Economic Development taking place at Harrah’s Resort and Casino in Atlantic City on September 16^th and 17^th.

2025 GOVERNOR’S EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARD WINNERS

Excellence in Housing Development Award
Residences at Harper – Moorestown
Oliver Station – Camden

Leading Neighborhood Revitalization Partnership Award
560-572 13th Ave – Newark
Residence at South College Drive – Deptford Township

Adaptive Reuse Transformation Award
Jonathan Sinay Building at the JFSNJ Weinberg Campus – Cherry Hill

Innovative Economic Development Award
The Forum at Madison– Madison

Senator Ronald L. Rice Impact Award
Elnardo J. Webster II

Small Business of Distinction Award
Don Ricky Bakery – Elizabeth
Quarks Advantage – Princeton

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 serves as 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 njhousingconference@njhmfa.gov. 

About the Conference

The Governor's Conference on Housing and Economic Development is a premier event that unites leaders from various sectors to address the most pressing housing and economic development issues. Hosted by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, New Jersey Housing & Mortgage Finance Agency, New Jersey Economic Development Authority, and New Jersey Redevelopment Authority, this conference is a cornerstone for fostering dialogue, sharing innovative ideas, and promoting sustainable development practices.