TLS has obtained a letter sent by State Senator Robert Singer to Governor Mikie Sherrill urging her administration to renew Lakewood’s designation as an Opportunity Zone under New Jersey’s new 2026 program.

In the June 29 letter, Singer emphasized Lakewood’s economic importance and argued that the township should continue receiving the incentives that have helped spur investment and job creation.

“As you know, I have long represented the Township of Lakewood among the key constituencies in my district,” Singer wrote. “I am proud to have served as their Senator during much of the dramatic growth of the past few decades.”

Singer also highlighted Lakewood’s role in the state’s economy, writing that “Lakewood’s industrial parks are a major economic engine for the region, employing approximately 20,000 New Jerseyans and providing a significant portion of the state’s economic impact.” He added that Lakewood has “one of the most active UEZ zones in the state, with over 800 businesses enrolled in the program and creating jobs and economic prosperity.”

Referring to the original federal Opportunity Zone program established in 2016, Singer noted that Lakewood was selected as one of the designated zones and that its boundaries were mapped to closely match the township’s Urban Enterprise Zone (UEZ).

“I am certain that Lakewood should be renewed in this program,” Singer wrote, adding that he hopes the state “will again map the OZ zone to match the UEZ map, which has recently been updated to reflect the latest developments in economic development.”

Singer concluded the letter by thanking the governor for her leadership on economic development and expressing hope that continued investment would benefit the township and the state.

“I want to express my appreciation for your leadership on this issue and incentivizing continuing investment in our zones so that we can create growth and prosperity for all in New Jersey,” he wrote, before offering to provide “any information I can provide to further support your determination of Lakewood as an Opportunity Zone for the new 2026 program.”

Opportunity Zones are intended to encourage private investment in designated areas through tax incentives, helping spur economic development, business growth, and job creation. Singer’s letter urges the state to ensure Lakewood remains eligible as the new Opportunity Zone program moves forward.