Cities benefit from business-historic preservation collaboration
This opinion piece was originally written for the Jersey Journal and appeared on NJ.com on January 30, 2025. It was written by Roxanne Earley, executive director of the Hoboken Business Alliance and Marty Anderson, the chairperson of the Hoboken Preservation Commission. View the original article here.
The new Bob Dylan biopic “A Complete Unknown” is the latest in a line of movies to be filmed in Hoboken. From the upcoming “The History of Sound” to classics like “On the Waterfront,” the Mile Square City is no stranger to hosting film sets. This, in large part, is due to its well-maintained 19th-century streetscape and rich architectural preservation.
The impact of these major motion pictures on Hoboken’s economy is profound. The movies elevate the city’s profile and image, and the people of Hoboken benefit from the attention, pride and sense of community resulting from prominent placement in the films. Of particular note, they showcase the mutually beneficial relationship between the city’s historic preservation and economic development.
Contrary to the belief that projects that advance the city’s economy detract from maintaining its history and legacy, we have seen first-hand how economic advancement across our city coexists with historic preservation and is crucial for upholding it. We have witnessed how historic preservation supports economic advancement. Business advocacy and historic preservation work together to create opportunities for residents, support our role as a destination for visitors, and uplift our culture and history.
Hoboken’s historic district creates an atmosphere that attracts creative opportunities for small businesses and independent retailers.
Small business owners are invested in their surroundings, and the investment becomes tenfold when they flourish. Within historic districts, successful businesses are more likely to contribute to preservation efforts, reinvesting in the upkeep and enhancement of their environments that contribute to the unique qualities that attract customers. This virtuous cycle benefits everyone: businesses gain visibility and vitality, and the community enjoys an enriched historic district.
Little City Books, Moran’s, and S&L Dental, all located in or immediately adjacent to Hoboken’s historic district, are just a few of the places used as filming locations for “A Complete Unknown,” (Washington Street, Hoboken’s ersatz Main Street, is also prominently featured). The inclusion drives traffic, awareness and customers to these businesses. Even prior to the national opening of “A Complete Unknown,” Hobokenites were eagerly watching the previews and advertisements, cheering the recognition of their city’s featured locations.
Proof of the mutually beneficial dynamic between historic preservation and economic development can be seen beyond just the city of Hoboken. Just across the river in New York City, for example, iconic landmarks and historic buildings contribute to its standing as a cultural capital and create a draw for filmmakers. The industry generated over 180,000 jobs and $81.6 billion for the city in economic output in 2019 alone, driving more traffic and revenue toward local businesses and historic neighborhoods and sights.
To implement innovative solutions that create economic prosperity and a well-preserved historic district, the Hoboken Historic Preservation Commission and the Hoboken Business Alliance work to create a shared sense of belonging and shape an inclusive, sustainable, and vibrant economic future for all residents and businesses. Preservation is about guiding change that enhances collective heritage and charm and that makes a city an appealing place to do business, whether through traditional retail or in the creative economy.
San Francisco nicely combines historic sites that date back to the 19th century alongside new economic and cultural developments. This pairing has drawn in filmmakers and helped the city generate over $19 million in economic output in 2023, with many local community groups touting the impact of filming on engagement and conveying the city’s identity and history.
With thoughtful collaboration, business and tourism entities working in tandem with historical experts produce policies that complement a city’s history while uplifting the local economy.
The vision for Hoboken’s future does not pit preservation against progress but embraces a strategy where they bolster each other. Committing to policies that respect our city’s history while enabling its economy to flourish ensures that Hoboken remains a place where the past enriches the present and paves the way for a thriving future. This is a model that cities of all sizes can emulate and reap short- and long-term benefits.
As stewards of economic development, culture, and history, the historic preservation municipal commission and business advocates in Hoboken are committed to safeguarding Hoboken’s charm while fostering an environment where creativity and commerce thrive.
Roxanne Earley is the executive director of the Hoboken Business Alliance and a member of the Board of Directors of Downtown New Jersey. As a professional, she implements creative solutions to pressing urban problems that strengthen the role of local communities in shaping their urban environment. Her experience reflects a fundamental belief in the importance of good civic engagement to create a more just and equal world.
