May 7, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Final recommendations reflect statewide stakeholder input and outline a path toward a modern, coordinated public media system
May 7, 2026 — The New Jersey Civic Information Consortium (NJCIC) today released the final report outlining a vision for a modern, statewide public media system designed to ensure all New Jersey residents have access to trusted news, civic information, and public-interest programming.
Building on a draft released in March, the final report reflects input from stakeholders across the state, including journalists, community leaders, educators, funders, and policymakers. Through a series of listening sessions and a public comment process, the effort engaged nearly 70 participants to help test, refine, and strengthen the framework.
The final recommendations incorporate stakeholder feedback in several key areas, including elevating the importance of government and public affairs coverage, refining the role of ecosystem support and collaboration, and clarifying how existing institutions and partnerships contribute to a stronger statewide system.
The report makes the case for a more coordinated and sustainable public media system; one that expands local journalism, combats misinformation, strengthens civic engagement, and ensures access to arts, culture, sports, and educational programming for communities across New Jersey. The framework is organized around three core components:
Together, these components are designed to strengthen the infrastructure supporting journalists, creators, educators, and storytellers across the state, while maintaining flexibility, independence, and long-term sustainability.
The report was developed through a collaborative process convened by NJCIC, bringing together a cross-sector Design Team representing journalism, academia, philanthropy, and civic institutions across New Jersey. A consulting team, including Due East Partners, Public Media Company, and Free Press, supported the public engagement, research, analysis, and development of the framework.
The final report is intended to inform policymakers, stakeholders, and potential partners as New Jersey considers next steps for strengthening its public media system.
The full report is available here.
The New Jersey Civic Information Consortium is an independent nonprofit organization established by the State of New Jersey in 2018 to strengthen local journalism and civic information across the state. Through grants, research, training programs, back-office support, and collaboration with media organizations and community partners, the Consortium works to ensure New Jersey residents have access to reliable information that helps increase civic participation and enhance community life.
Madison McCool
Communications Manager
madi@njcivicinfo.org
Read the complete Public Media Ecosystem Report to learn more about the vision for public media in New Jersey.
View the ReportDownload a PDF copy of this press release for your records or to share with colleagues.
Download PDFThe New Jersey Civic Information Consortium works to strengthen local journalism and civic information across the state.