BFJ Planning worked with the City of Jersey City to prepare an update to the Land Use Element of the Master Plan. Since its 2000 Master Plan, the City has experienced broad-based economic growth, accompanied by employment and income gains and significant development activity. This robust growth has also generated shifts in the demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of the City. The Land Use Element reflects these changes and identified desired concepts for land use, development, and urban design for the next 20 years. The Element  incorporates principles such as neighborhood-scaled, contextual planning; smart growth; mobility for all users; preservation of valuable historic, scenic, and environmental assets; reinforcement of retail and commercial uses at a variety of scales; and support for a range of housing opportunities serving residents of varying ages and incomes. The Land Use Element examined urban design challenges that are unique to Jersey City and its neighborhoods. Some of these issues were addressed at the neighborhood level, but many cross-cut across City geographies, and required a combination of design and regulatory strategies. 

The Land Use Element Update represented part of a larger master planning effort that also incorporated the preparation of an Open Space, Recreation, and Community Facilities Element of the Master Plan. These two elements are under the umbrella of an overall Master Plan Update that established the graphic identity of the two documents, ensuring consistency of content, and coordinates the public engagement process. BFJ Planning is worked closely with these related plans and their consultants to ensure that the Land Use Element fit appropriately within the larger effort and furthers the City’s broader goals.

The full Jersey City Master Plan was adopted in early 2022. In 2023, the New Jersey chapter of the American Planning Association selected the plan for its annual Outstanding Community Engagement Award.