Urban Enterprise Programs Managed By The JCEDC The UEZ program, administered by the JCEDC, promotes development in designated areas of the City. UEZ qualified businesses are eligible for tax incentives, reduced unemployment insurance, marketing support and business counseling. Certified UEZ retailers collect a sales tax of only three percent. These funds are reinvested in city business development programs. This redevelopment of the City's core business areas, called Holistic Urban Building, creates a ripple effect that not only encourages new business investment-and attracts shoppers to retail areas, but has a positive impact on adjoining residential areas as well. Jersey UEZ business enrollment accounts for the creation of some 17,549 full-time jobs since the UEZ's inception. In Journal Square, years of planning culminated this year in the launching of a $7 million capital improvement project. This project, due to be completed next year, will transform the Square into a showplace, with a pedestrian plaza, a fountain, new lighting and streetscape improvements enhancing an area that will combine office, commercial, educational and residential uses. The UEZ Department has developed a program that provides additional security in the commercial districts citywide; instituted the "clean and green" program, including weekend sanitation services and planters in commercial districts, and facilitated formation and support of Special Improvement Districts (SIDs). According to a study by the Rutgers School of Criminal Justice, SID services have improved the quality of life in the Square. Police calls have dropped significantly, and graffiti has virtually disappeared. UEZ Program Video Holistic Urban Building UEZ Funds Help Pay for New Police Cars

WHAT IS THE URBAN ENTERPRISE ZONE?

The Urban Enterprise Zone (UEZ) is a state-designated program to alieviate unemployment in 30 municipalities across the state. It allows businesses to charge a reduced sales tax rate by 50 percent. State sales tax in New Jersey is currently 6 percent, so participating UEZ retailers can charge 3 percent sales tax. In Jersey City, the Urban Enterprise Zone covers a third of the city.

HOW DOES THE URBAN ENTERPRISE ZONE BENEFIT MERCHANTS?

Member retailers are allowed to charge 3 percent sales tax, which they are able to announce in their advertisements. All member businesses are also allowed to make purchases that are utilized for their business at their business tax-free. Non-retailers are able to apply for tax credits for new hires, as well as unemployment insurance-based awards.

HOW DOES THE URBAN ENTERPRISE ZONE BENEFIT CONSUMERS & CITY RESIDENTS?

Consumers who shop in the Urban Enterprise Zones save money by paying a reduced sales tax. City residents benefit from the program, because funds generated from the sales tax collection are used for capital investments in municipal services for Jersey City's Urban Enterprise Zone areas. For example, this year UEZ funds helped purchase new police cars, CCTV cameras, and facade improvements.

IF YOU WANT TO JOIN THE UEZ PROGRAM

Business owners interested in joining the Jersey City Urban Enterprise Zone should contact the Jersey City Economic Development Corporation during regular business hours Monday through Friday. The JCEDC is located at 30 Montgomery Street, Suite 820, and can be reached by phone at (201) 333-7797, ext. 25. Ask for UEZ Director Roberta Farber. An application will be issued, and there is no cost for applying to or entering the UEZ program.

Special Improvement Districts (SIDs) Central Avenue Journal Square Historic Downtown McGinley Square Commercial District Security Citywide patrols in UEZ areas Clean and Green Weekend sanitation services Decorative planters citywide

In designated SIDs, merchants voluntarily pay special assessments that can be used for marketing and promotion, and even professional management to improve the shopping environment in the district and attract shoppers. Along Central Avenue, the presence of the SID shows in the additional security and sanitation services, and lighted holiday decorations. The JCEDC has established a process for assisting existing SIDs with their operations and continuing the formation of additional SIDs. JCEDC staff professionals assist SID boards of trustees in proposal writing, provide advice on budgeting and help recruit and hire a professional manager. They also help start steering committees for retail districts interested in organizing new SIDs.

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