Governor's Conference on Housing and Economic Development Announces 2023 Excellence Award Winners

Trenton, NJ – The Governor's Conference on Housing and Economic Development (GCHED) is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2023 Governor's Excellence in Housing and Economic Development Awards. These awards, presented during a special ceremony on September 29^th, recognize outstanding contributions to housing and economic development across the State of New Jersey. 

Acting Commissioner Jacquelyn A. Suárez of the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs stated,"These awards are a testament to the dedicated efforts of those who work tirelessly to enhance housing accessibility and promote economic growth throughout our state. We applaud the winners for their contributions to New Jersey's communities."

The Governor's Excellence in Housing and Economic Development Awards celebrates individuals, organizations, and projects that align with the core missions of the Governor's Conference on Housing and Economic Development Coordinating Agencies: the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA), the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (EDA), the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Financing Agency (NJHMFA), and the New Jersey Redevelopment Authority (NJRA).

Leslie A. Anderson, President and CEO of the New Jersey Redevelopment Authority, and recipient of this year’s Ronald L. Rice Impact Award, emphasized the importance of these awards: "It is an honor to recognize the individuals, organizations, and projects that have left an indelible mark on our landscape. Their commitment to positive change serves as an inspiration to us all."

The awards encompass six categories, and dozens of applications were reviewed to select the final roster of award recipients for this year.

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

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.

"This year's award winners exemplify the energy and innovation that has been producing high-quality housing opportunities for New Jersey residents over the last few years," noted Melanie Walter, Executive Director of the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency. "These projects are shaping the future of housing in New Jersey."

For the first time this year, the Conference will be presenting the Ronald L. Rice Impact Award and the Small Business of Distinction Award. 

The Senator Ronald L. Rice Impact Award pays tribute to non-profits, individuals, or organizations that have made significant impacts on housing, economic development, or community improvement. 

While 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.

"The Innovative Economic Development Award and the Small Business of Distinction Awards showcase the cutting-edge initiatives that drive economic prosperity and create opportunities for job growth and entrepreneurship,” said Tim Sullivan, CEO of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority. “I applaud today’s awardees and commend them for their pioneering contributions to our state. I also want to congratulate my friend Leslie Anderson for being recognized with the inaugural Ronald L. Rice Impact Award for her dedication and service that is helping grow our economy and strengthen communities.”

The 2023 Governor's Excellence in Housing and Economic Development Award winners are:

Leading Neighborhood Revitalization Partnership Award:

Eastern Pacific Development for RiverGrove Family Apartments.

Adaptive Reuse Transformation Award:

City of Passaic for Dignity House.

Innovative Economic Development Award:

BAW Development for Hinchliffe Neighborhood Revitalization Project.

Excellence in Housing Development Award:

New Jersey Community Development Corporation for Barclay Place Apartments.

Ronald L. Rice Impact Award:

Leslie A. Anderson, President and CEO of the New Jersey Redevelopment Authority.

Small Business of Distinction Awards:

Citi Medina, Founder of Equal Space in Newark, NJ; Rachel Garcia, owner of Dry Goods Refillery in Montclair, NJ; and Maurice Hallett, owner of 1911 Smokehouse Barbecue in Trenton, NJ.

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 is 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.

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