Filming Will Cause Traffic Disruptions In Newark: Officials

NEWARK, NJ — A film production will cause traffic disruptions on Branford and Halsey streets in Newark from Tuesday, May 7 to Saturday, May 11, authorities said.

According to the Newark Department of Public Safety, the filming will close Branford Street (between Washington Street and Broad Street) and Halsey Street (from Market Street to William Street) during the following times:

• Tuesday, May 7 – 10 a.m. to 2 a.m.
• Wednesday May 8 to Friday, May 10 – 2 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Streets will re-open Saturday, May 11 at 6 a.m., Newark public safety officials said.

“Due to possible traffic congestion resulting from this event, we advise those traveling in the area to allow for extra time and to plan alternative routes,” the NDPS stated.

The name of the film or the production company wasn’t specified in an initial police news release. However, Kenneth Gifford, director of the Newark Office of Film and Television, recently told NJ.com that filming for the much-anticipated Sopranos prequel, “The Many Saints of Newark,” was tentatively scheduled to come to Branford Place between Washington and Broad streets from May 6 to 8.

A casting call was issued last week to Newark "men, women and children of all ages" to play background parts in a scene set in 1967.

Last year, the Brick City saw some high-profile filming for the upcoming “Joker” movie, set to release on Oct. 4. The upcoming Warner Brothers blockbuster explores the origin of Batman's most iconic villain, and stars Joaquin Phoenix as the Clown Prince of Crime.

Shooting for the movie took place in Newark over several days in October of 2018, including a scene where Phoenix sprints down a busy city street clad in a head-to-toe clown costume.

• See related article: Which Scenes From 'Joker' Movie Were Shot In Newark? (VIDEOS)

During filming for “Joker,” Newark city officials warned local commuters about traffic changes and closed streets. Filming for that movie also caused disruptions at several NJ Transit bus stops.

• See related article: 'Joker' Filming In Newark Will Affect NJ Transit Buses, Traffic

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