2026 Governor's Conference on Housing and Economic Development
Governor’s Conference on Housing and Economic Development Announces 2026 Excellence in Housing and Economic Development Awards
TRENTON, NJ – The Governor’s Conference on Housing and Economic Development is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2026 Governor’s Excellence in Housing and Economic Development Awards and the 2026 Housing and Economic Development Hall of Fame inductee. These awards were presented during a special ceremony on September 30, 2026, at the Hall of Fame Award & Governor’s Excellence in Housing and Economic Development Awards Brunch during the Governor’s Conference on Housing and Economic Development, which took place at Harrah’s Resort and Casino in Atlantic City on September 29th and 30th. The ceremony recognized outstanding contributions to housing and economic development across New Jersey.
The Housing and Economic Development Hall of Fame and the Governor’s Excellence in Housing and Economic Development Awards celebrate individuals, organizations, and projects that align with the core missions of the Governor’s Conference on Housing and Economic Development coordinating agencies: New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA), the New Jersey Redevelopment Authority (NJRA), the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), and the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Financing Agency (NJHMFA).
“The honorees of this year’s Governor’s Excellence in Housing and Economic Development Awards are improving lives and strengthening neighborhoods through their transformative projects and programs,” said New Jersey Department of Community Affairs Commissioner Jacquelyn A. Suárez. “Their work shows us what is possible when organizations, businesses, and government commit to putting people and community at the heart of their decisions and projects. We congratulate each of the honorees on their achievements and encourage them to keep striving for excellence in their future endeavors.”
“The Governor’s Excellence in Housing and Economic Development Awards celebrate what is possible when vision is met with action, and people come together with a shared belief in the future of our communities,” said Rose Farias, CEO and Executive Director of the New Jersey Redevelopment Authority. “These honorees reflect Governor Sherrill’s vision for a more affordable New Jersey by creating homes, opening doors to opportunity, and building stronger communities where families and businesses can thrive. NJRA is proud to celebrate the people who are not simply imagining a better New Jersey but helping to build it.”
The Governor’s Excellence in Housing and Economic Development awards include six categories and recognize projects and businesses across New Jersey. This year’s Hall of Fame inductee, Donna M. Blaze, is a trailblazer whose career reflects a lifetime of creating affordable housing opportunities.
“Governor Sherrill is committed to creating environments where equitable economic growth can thrive, supporting job creation, neighborhood revitalization, and improved quality of life for residents,” said New Jersey Economic Development Authority Chief Executive Officer Evan Weiss. “The award winners honor the individuals, organizations, and projects that are at the forefront of real estate and economic development, revitalizing communities and catalyzing growth across the state.”
“We congratulate this year's award winners for their contributions to our state,” said NJHMFA Executive Director Melanie R. Walter. “They represent the considerable creativity and effort that goes into creating and preserving high-quality affordable housing, revitalizing neighborhoods, and making a difference in their community.”
The 2026 Housing and Economic Development Hall of Fame Award will recognize pioneers in the housing and economic development fields ranging from those who work to create, finance, and develop affordable housing and economic growth opportunities to individuals who advocate, lead and educate the public on the issues.
The Leading Neighborhood Revitalization Partnership Award recognizes a collaborative effort that effectively revitalizes and transforms neighborhoods, bringing about positive change and revitalization.
The Adaptive Reuse Transformation Award honors a project that creatively repurposes existing structures, preserving historical and architectural significance while contributing to economic growth and community revitalization.
The Innovative Economic Development Award acknowledges a groundbreaking initiative that promotes economic prosperity, job creation, and sustainable development.
The Excellence in Housing Development Award recognizes an exceptional project that provides high-quality, affordable housing options to meet the diverse needs of residents.
The Senator Ronald L. Rice Impact Award pays tribute to an individual who has made a significant impact on housing, economic development, or community improvement.
The Small Business of Distinction Award acknowledges the achievements of small businesses that have demonstrated excellence, innovation, and a positive impact on their communities, highlighting their vital role in driving economic growth and local development.
2026 HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT HALL OF FAME AWARD
Donna M. Blaze
2026 GOVERNOR’S EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARD WINNERS
Small Business of Distinction
Gladys’ Cleaning Service
Hudson Kitchen
Leading Neighborhood Revitalization Partnership Award
The Place at Haddonfield
Adaptive Reuse Transformation Award
The Encore
Excellence in Housing Development Award
Freedom Village At Hamilton Woods
The Mews at St. Mary
Residences at Woodlawn
Innovative Economic Development Award
Bell Works Fort Monmouth
Senator Ronald L. Rice Impact Award
Senator Troy Singleton
The Governor's Excellence in Housing and Economic Development Awards serve as a prestigious recognition program celebrating outstanding achievements in the fields of housing and economic development in the state of New Jersey. These awards highlight individuals, organizations, and projects that contribute to the advancement of housing opportunities that are affordable and accessible to all residents of New Jersey. By recognizing exemplary projects and initiatives, the awards aim to inspire and encourage further efforts to improve the overall quality of life for all New Jerseyans.
The Governor's Conference on Housing and Economic Development brings together government officials, industry leaders, and stakeholders to discuss strategies, innovations, and policies to advance housing opportunities and economic development in New Jersey. The conference serves as a platform for collaboration and knowledge-sharing, fostering partnerships that drive positive changes in our state.
For more information about the Governor's Conference on Housing and Economic Development, visit NJHousingConference.com or email njhousingconference@njhmfa.gov.
For more information about DCA, visit https://nj.gov/dca/ or follow the Department on social media:
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