232,000-square-foot facility launches with strong leasing momentum and first major production signed
NEW YORK, N.Y. — Sunset Pier 94 Studios, Manhattan’s first purpose-built film and television production campus, has officially opened on the city’s West Side, marking a major expansion of New York City’s media production infrastructure and capacity.
The 232,000-square-foot facility debuted with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by joint venture partners Vornado Realty Trust, Hudson Pacific Properties and Blackstone Real Estate, along with representatives from the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC), elected officials, industry leaders and community stakeholders.
Designed by global architecture and design firm Gensler, the campus was developed to address Manhattan’s long-standing shortage of modern, purpose-built studio space. The opening comes as New York State continues to expand film and television tax incentives, fueling demand for high-quality production facilities.
State-of-the-Art Production Space
Sunset Pier 94 Studios offers:
- Six purpose-built sound stages
- 145,000 square feet of production support space and offices
- 232,000 total square feet of leasable space
- 36-foot clear ceiling heights
- Direct access to an on-site mill for set construction
- On-site parking and waterfront access
- Office and support spaces with Hudson River views
The studio opened with strong leasing momentum. Paramount Television Studios has already signed a lease for two sound stages and production offices to film the second season of Dexter: Resurrection. Additional lease announcements are expected in the coming months.
Economic Impact and Industry Growth
Industry leaders say the project strengthens New York City’s position as a global media and entertainment hub while generating significant economic benefits.
Victor Coleman, Chairman and CEO of Hudson Pacific Properties, said the facility combines world-class design, modern infrastructure and a prime Manhattan location to attract top-tier productions and deliver meaningful economic impact.
Vornado Realty Trust Executive Vice President Barry Langer noted that the project demonstrates how public-private partnerships can support the city’s creative economy while also delivering new jobs and public amenities.
Blackstone Real Estate leadership emphasized the importance of expanding state-of-the-art production space in New York City to meet industry demand.
NYCEDC officials highlighted that the project is expected to serve as a long-term economic engine, creating hundreds of industry jobs and generating billions in economic activity while also delivering public realm improvements.
Empire State Development President and CEO Hope Knight said the facility reflects New York’s ongoing investment in production infrastructure and incentives to keep the state’s film and television industry competitive.
Community and Workforce Benefits
Beyond production capacity, Sunset Pier 94 Studios includes:
- 25,000 square feet of waterfront open space and pier access
- Public restrooms and improvements to Hudson River Park
- Nearly 2,000 square feet of community amenity space
- Safety upgrades to the adjacent bikeway
The project also supports workforce development initiatives in film, television and media production. Manhattan Neighborhood Network and Brooklyn Workforce Innovations are providing training programs, internships, scholarships and case management services to connect local residents with industry careers.
Long-Term Impact
The project is expected to support approximately 400 permanent jobs and generate an estimated $6.4 billion in economic impact over 30 years, reinforcing New York City’s role as a global center for content creation.
