LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION! NETFLIX BOUGHT FORT MONMOUTH FOR NEW STUDIO
Fort Monmouth was created in 1917 as a place for Soldiers to learn signals and logistics. These are both areas that are vital to the success of any application, but especially for those fighting on the battlefield. However, since 2011, the military installation has not been used for military applications. It has since become home to the Fort Monmouth Economic Revitalization Authority (FMERA), helping to improve the local economy. But now a new use is coming to the grounds thanks to Netflix. The streaming giant will be using the facility as a major studio to help produce content for its popular streaming service. Read next:How'd ‘Purple Hearts’ (Netflix) Get Permission to Film at Camp Pendleton?
Why Did Fort Monmouth Close?
It’s simple; Fort Monmouth closed so that the government could save money. Although some of the personnel were moved to Aberdeen Proving Grounds, operations would come to a close after 94 years of service in 2011. Yes, even the United States Military takes budgeting into consideration at times, and sadly, this was one of the places that were cut by the Base Realignment and Closure Commission in 2005. The instillation that once helped Soldiers learn communications ranging from the use of carrier pigeons to sending messages to space is no more. Fort Monmouth in NJ got its start in communications but also had other uses throughout its existence. It was also famous for holding a trial for Julius and Ethel Rosenberg following World War II. The U.S. believed Julius stole atomic plans and gave them to the Soviets, resulting in both being convicted of federal espionage charges. The Rosenbergs were executed in 1953.
Home of the 754th Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit
In addition to serving as a training facility and hosting the Rosenberg trial, Fort Monmouth was also home to the 754th Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit. Before closing, the EOD unit helped multiple states, including Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island. As the name would suggest, an EOD unit helps deal with the safe location and disposal of explosives. This can range from improvised explosive devices (IEDs) to nuclear devices and everything in between. But soon, explosions and a lot more may be making their way back to the facilities. The Netflix/Fort Monmouth deal is bringing new life to the facility as the number one streaming service in the world is purchasing the property to bring a studio to the area.
Fort Monmouth/Netflix Deal Giving the Space a New Role
The next time you binge your favorite shows, you may be watching a production that comes from a former military base. Spending $55 million, Netflix purchased the 293-acre piece of land for producing more content. In total, the streaming giant is planning to build 12 soundstages, a backlot, and several other necessary structures. Netflix will enjoy tax credits, New York and New Jersey will enjoy an influx within their local economies, and Fort Monmouth will once again find its purpose, however different this role may be. Suggested read:‘Theaters of War’ Highlights Potential Propaganda Problems in Movies
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