After years of setbacks and rumors to boot, will “Hollywood Devens” be the real studio deal? According to news leaked by State House News Service Michael Norton this month, the state’s economic development agency has agreed to enter into negotiations over a sale price and tax incentives with a development company that plans to build a 600,000 square foot, state-of-the-art film and television production complex in Fort Devens. Price tag $104 million over ten years.
The project, similar to the infamous Plymouth Rock Studios and Southfield Studio, promises sound stages, production support, office space to help keep the buzz alive for film and television here the Bay state. The first phase is rumored to start next year and the first stage could open by the end of 2012. Shall we say break a leg!
“Devens continues to power the north-central Massachusetts economy, and we hope soon to welcome MJM Development as the newest member of the Devens community,” said MassDevelopment President and CEO Marty Jones. “We look forward to continuing to work with the Patrick-Murray Administration and MJM to keep film production in Massachusetts past the initial stage and bring well-paid jobs to the Commonwealth.”
MJM Development is a Massachusetts development company specifically incorporated for the turn-key development of the studio complex. The company represents a small group of private Massachusetts real estate developers and equity investors. MJM Development has assembled a seasoned team that includes experienced Hollywood film industry consultants, studio operators, and designers with strong Massachusetts affiliations.
It’s hard to tell what will happen with this studio. We do hope the project takes off and will provide the walls of endless possibilities and bedazzle the future productions here in the Bay State.
Tell us what you think of “Hollywood Devens”!
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I don’t know who they have been talking too. What industry professionals gave their input. But For someone who works in the industry everyday, This is not a good location. It’s to far away from Boston. It’s not cheap to move a full film company from point A to B…. Not having it in Boston is a mistake. I predict it will disappear just like Plymouth.
I think this is a wonderful location. Central Massachusetts is a perfect commute for any big business. Boston is becoming completely absurd to navigate, not to mention parking issues. I am researching this already in hopes of an employment position there. Please come on in, MJM!!