Oceanport Planning Board Approves First 4 Netflix Film Studios

OCEANPORT, NJ — In mid-November, several members of the Oceanport Planning/Zoning Board raised these concerns about Netflix opening a 24/7, around-the-clock film studio at the former Monmouth Army base. Multiple board members said they are worried about noise, traffic, outdoor filming and intrusive lighting glaring into residents' homes — especially during the overnight filming Netflix says it intends to do on site.

However, at their most recent meeting, Nov. 26 — the Tuesday before Thanksgiving — the Oceanport Planning Board gave its approval that construction can begin on the first round of Netflix film studios.

You can watch that Nov. 26 meeting here: https://www.gotostage.com/chan...

This is the construction of the first four soundstages at Fort Monmouth. Filming is done inside a soundstage, which are designed to be soundproof.

The first four Netflix soundstages will be 22,000 square feet each and stand 70 feet tall. Construction will not start until the fourth quarter of 2025, or even early 2026. Each soundstage will be numbered 1-4. Netflix wanted the 1-4 number signs to be 12 feet tall, but Oceanport Planning Board member Darren Davis "was persistent on keeping the size at 10 to reduce some of the visual impact on residents," the Asbury Park Press reported Dec. 2.

Netflix said it was pleased to get the approval.

"The Oceanport Planning Board's approval of our site plan demonstrates that the community shares our enthusiasm for building a new studio in New Jersey," said a Netflix spokesperson in a statement released to the media last Tuesday, the night the Planning Board vote was taken.

"This project will drive economic growth and create jobs in the state," he continued. "While we still have a lot of work ahead, we are excited to continue partnering with local officials and the community to transform this historic space into a world-class production facility."

These first four soundstages are "Phase 1A" of Netflix's larger plan to develop more than 200 acres of the Fort Monmouth property.

If all goes as planned, Netflix plans to turn Fort Monmouth into its East Coast filming headquarters, and will build a total of 12 soundstages on site. Netflix and Gov. Phil Murphy say opening a film production studio will bring thousands of actor/actress, tech and sound, construction, make-up and editorial/writing jobs to this area, which plunged into economic decay after the U.S. Army closed the base in 2011.

The first four stages will be built on what is called the "McAfee Zone" or "McAfee Parcel." The McAfee Parcel is 45 acres bordered by Cheryl Avenue to the north, Brewer Avenue to the west and Avenue of Memories along the south. It butts up against the towns of Oceanport and Eatontown. The closest home sits 380 feet from the boundary line of the McAfee Zone.

There will be an 8-10 foot wall around the entire McAfee Parcel, with a gate and 24/7 security. Security will be very tightly controlled and nobody will be allowed on Netflix property without permission to be there, said Netflix.

Nov. 15 Patch report: Noise, Overnight Filming From Netflix Worries Oceanport Planning Board