What is the neighborhood planning effort?
This is a community-driven process to create a neighborhood revitalization plan for Keansburg. The plan will outline goals, priorities, and strategies that reflect what matters most to residents, local businesses, and community partners.
Why is this happening now?
A State-approved plan is required for Keansburg to access special funding through the New Jersey Neighborhood Revitalization Tax Credit (NRTC) Program. Developing the plan now positions us to submit our plan for approval in the Spring, begin recruiting investors over the summer and fall, bring new investment into Keansburg starting in 2027.
How can this benefit Keansburg?
If the State approves the plan, Keansburg will be eligible for significant new investment from corporate partners through the NRTC program. These dollars can support community priorities without raising local taxes.
Where does NRTC funding come from?
Funding comes from private businesses and corporations that choose to invest in approved neighborhood projects. In return, they receive a State tax credit. This brings new, dedicated dollars into Keansburg at no cost to residents.
Will this lead to more affordable housing or new Section 8 units in Keansburg?
No.
Although the NRTC program includes affordable housing as one of its focus areas, AHA is not proposing any affordable housing or Section 8 development in Keansburg as part of this neighborhood plan. Keansburg already meets its affordable housing obligations, and there is no requirement and no intention to include new affordable housing units in this NRTC plan.
Does the State require housing to be part of the plan?
The NRTC program requires that 60% of project funding support housing or economic development activities. In Keansburg, this does not mean building new housing. Instead, housing-related funding can support existing residents through activities such as home repairs, elevation assistance, age-in-place projects, and homeownership preparation through housing counseling.
Economic development activities can include small business support, streetscape improvements, job access programs, and other community priorities identified by residents. AHA will design these activities based on community input and on what will benefit Keansburg households most.
What kinds of projects could be funded?
Specific projects will be shaped by community input. Examples may include:
Improvements to public spaces and streetscapes
Youth programs and creative or recreational opportunities
Housing stability and homeownership resources
Home repair or age-in-place supports for existing residents
Neighborhood pride and beautification initiatives
Community services and events that strengthen connections
Support for small businesses and the local business district
Job access, training, and workforce opportunities
The final plan will reflect the ideas and priorities identified by residents.
How much funding can Keansburg receive?
Each NRTC project can receive up to $800,000 per year to support plan activities.
How can I share my input?
There are several ways to participate:
Complete the online community survey
Attend a community meeting
Join a focus group
Contact Gillian Edgar at gedgar@housingall.org
Everyone who lives, works, or owns a business in Keansburg is welcome to participate.
Do I need to live in a specific part of Keansburg to join in?
No. This planning process is open to the entire community. While the NRTC program requires a defined project area, ideas and feedback from all residents are welcome and encouraged.
How long will the planning process take?
Late 2025 through Spring 2026: Community engagement and plan development
Spring 2026: Plan submitted to the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs
Summer 2026: DCA plan review and neighborhood visit
Fall 2026 through year end: Investor recruitment
2027: Earliest year Keansburg could begin receiving NRTC investment, if the plan is approved
Where can I see the project area map?
A map of the proposed project area is available on this website. The boundaries may be refined as we gather community input.