Kara Kopach

Listen to this article

As executive director of the Fort Monmouth Economic Revitalization Authority, Kopach oversees the redevelopment of a historically significant asset. The FMERA took over the 1,100-acre former military base in 2016 and got to work on projects expected to create 10,000 jobs and generate $2 billion in economic investments.

According to the authority, more than 35 projects are underway covering 85% of the real estate. Tenants recently have begun moving into The Commissary, a food-focused development at the Oceanport site. And in October, Netflix reportedly was the top bidder on a 292-acre mega parcel and will build a film production studio on the property.

All of which is evidence of success, but challenges remain. Most immediately, perhaps, the financial difficulties at New Jersey City University creates uncertainty about the future of the school’s campus at Fort Monmouth. Nonetheless, the momentum seems positive under Kopach’s leadership.