Christian Bollwage, Mayor, City of Elizabeth

In an interview with Invest:, Elizabeth Mayor Christian Bollwage emphasized the city’s growth through transit-oriented development and economic expansion. Key projects include a boutique hotel and the Elizabeth River Trail extension to improve connectivity. “Transportation is at the heart of our city’s growth,” he noted.

What have been the key milestones for the city of Elizabeth in the past year?

In the last 12 months, the city has made significant progress, particularly with our Midtown Elizabeth development. We celebrated the grand opening of 284 residential units there, leveraging the newly completed Elizabeth train station, which opened at the beginning of last year. Transportation is at the heart of our city’s growth, enhancing both quality of life and economic opportunities.

Geographically, Elizabeth benefits from its proximity to the New Jersey Turnpike, Newark Airport, and the largest seaport on the East Coast. This strategic location fuels our industrial, commercial, and residential growth. Our transit-oriented developments, particularly around the train station, are helping shape a vibrant, connected community.

What are your key priorities as you begin your ninth term as mayor?

Winning a ninth term in New Jersey’s fourth-largest city is a significant achievement, not just for me but for the dedicated team at City Hall. I’m also the longest-serving mayor in the United States for a city with a population of 100,000 or more, which has given me the opportunity to engage with the U.S. Conference of Mayors in shaping policies that impact cities nationwide.

Looking ahead, public safety remains a top priority. We’re working closely with our police and fire departments, ensuring they have access to the latest technology to keep our community safe. Transportation is another major focus, ensuring efficient access to the seaport and the Jersey Gardens Mall, which has grown from paying just $63,000 in taxes 30 years ago to nearly $7 million today. Economic development, both residential and commercial, continues to be a driving force in our city’s future.

What makes Elizabeth a great place to live, work, and play?

The biggest standout in Elizabeth is our diversity. We have residents who speak over 50 languages, likely even close to 100. Immigration has been the backbone of our city’s growth, from Irish and Italian immigrants in the 1800s to Cuban arrivals in the 1950s and ’60s, followed by waves of South American immigration in the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s.

This diversity has revitalized key districts. Elizabeth Avenue, once struggling, was transformed by the Cuban community. Similarly, Morris Avenue has flourished thanks to Colombian entrepreneurs, turning it into a hub of shops, restaurants, and salons. Our small-business growth, fueled by immigrant communities, continues to be one of our greatest strengths.

What are the main industries driving growth in Elizabeth?

Economic development in Elizabeth is powered by our proximity to both Newark Airport and the seaport, which provide high-paying jobs and drive commercial activity. But our economy isn’t just about logistics and warehousing.

Jersey Gardens Mall, with over 200 retail stores, employs thousands of people. Major retailers like IKEA, Raymour & Flanigan, and Floor & Decor also contribute to job creation. Additionally, small business growth remains a key driver of our local economy, supported by organizations like the Chamber of Commerce under Jennifer Costa’s leadership. Our city thrives on a balanced mix of large-scale economic drivers and small business entrepreneurship.

How does the city of Elizabeth collaborate with county, state, and federal officials to achieve its goals?

Sometimes it’s a challenge. Union County consists of 21 municipalities, with Elizabeth being the largest and the county seat. While we benefit from jobs created by county-run institutions, those buildings don’t contribute to our local tax base.

At the state level, we work closely with Gov. Phil Murphy and his administration. In contrast, during Gov. Chris Christie’s tenure, we lost important resources like the Urban Enterprise Zone benefits and our motor vehicle agency. Murphy restored that agency, demonstrating a commitment to strengthening state-municipal partnerships.

On the federal level, cooperation with the new administration will be difficult. The current president governs with a divisive approach, making it challenging for cities like Elizabeth to build meaningful partnerships. We will continue to push forward at the municipal level, but I don’t expect strong federal support for cities over the next four years.

What are the biggest challenges facing the city, and how do you plan to address them?

One major challenge is dealing with a federal administration that prioritizes self-interest over the well-being of communities. Without strong federal partnerships, cities must take the lead on local governance.

Infrastructure, affordability, and public safety are other pressing concerns. We remain committed to improving transportation access, maintaining affordable housing, and keeping our neighborhoods safe. Our strategy involves strong local leadership, collaboration with state and county agencies, and continuous investment in our community’s growth and security.

How does Elizabeth support local businesses while maintaining its sense of community?

Supporting small businesses is key to preserving the local character of Elizabeth. We work with the Elizabeth Development Company, the Urban Enterprise Zone program, the Small Business Administration, and the Chamber of Commerce to provide loans, resources, and networking opportunities.

Our neighborhoods and local government institutions, whether it’s city hall, the city council, or the Department of Policy and Planning, play a role in ensuring businesses succeed. Keeping our parks clean, providing recreational opportunities, and supporting seniors all contribute to a thriving, community-focused environment.

How does Elizabeth enhance its appeal to new residents through amenities and services?

Elizabeth is home to Trinitas Hospital, which offers both preventive and specialized healthcare services. We also provide residents with brochures and community outreach events, ensuring they know what resources are available.

During warmer months, we host neighborhood fairs where all city departments set up tents with information and services. Our Motor Vehicle agency is another key service for residents.

Additionally, we invest in recreational amenities, including new softball and soccer fields, and upcoming pickleball courts.

What upcoming development projects will be key for the city?

Two major projects stand out. First, we’re working on bringing a boutique hotel to the Midtown train station, a much-needed addition since the last downtown hotel closed over 50 years ago. Second, there’s a vacant piece of land near the train station that the EPA is set to purchase from CSX Railroad. We plan to transform it into a park with pickleball courts and a walking path to improve pedestrian access to the station. Additionally, we’re completing the Elizabeth River Trail, which will allow residents to bike or walk from the Midtown train station all the way to Staten Island via the Goethals Bridge.

Where do you hope the city will be in the next two to three years?

In three years, I’d like to see these development projects completed. The boutique hotel, the new park, and the Elizabeth River Trail extension will all contribute to making Elizabeth a better place to live, work, and visit. Beyond that, we’ll continue focusing on economic growth, transportation improvements, and maintaining our strong sense of community.