Here's What You Need To Know About The St. Georges Avenue Shutdown
Ten-block closure of the major artery through Rahway is to accommodate a Netflix movie shoot
A map showing the full extent of road closures and traffic operations during the movie shoot. (Courtesy: Ally Rose via Facebook)
October 13, 2025
A Netflix movie shoot is behind the St. Georges Avenue shutdown this week. The streaming giant is filming its new movie Bad Day, starring Cameron Diaz. The city says the closure will affect roughly ten blocks and several surrounding roads.
News of the shoot spread quickly after Netflix sent out a letter to businesses and residents in the area earlier this month.
City officials warn that the closure could cause significant traffic delays and are urging drivers to plan alternate routes. According to the Netflix notice, the St. Georges will be blocked from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday and Wednesday. However, with rain in the forecast, one of those filming days could be pushed to Friday.
The prospect of a Hollywood celebrity sent a buzz throughout the city. A local business posted a flyer this weekend on social media featuring Diaz and invited customers to “get a behind-the-scenes look” at the action.
However, one official familiar with the matter said it seems unlikely that Diaz is coming to town. Usually, production studios send word in advance to city officials if a big star is coming to town. In this case, the official said the city has not received any special heads-up.
While the production has stirred excitement, it’s also created logistical challenges. St. Georges Avenue is one of Rahway’s busiest corridors, and the closure is expected to impact local businesses and school traffic.
Officials said the city has worked with affected businesses to minimize disruption, noting that many have separate entrances that will remain accessible. Some business owners will also receive stipends from Netflix, though details about who qualifies and how much they’ll receive have not been disclosed.
The shutdown will also affect parents driving their children to Roosevelt Elementary School. Officials urge families to expect delays and use alternate routes. A school official said an email alert was sent through Genesis last week, and additional communication is being discussed internally.
Despite the inconvenience, Mayor Raymond Giacobbe said he welcomes the spotlight Netflix brings to Rahway.
“Netflix has been a wonderful partner throughout this process, working closely with the city and local businesses,” Giacobbe said in a statement. “I’d like to thank our residents and business owners for their patience and continued support as Rahway continues to shine on a larger stage.”
Giacobbe added that Rahway’s status as a Film Ready City has helped attract projects like this one, positioning the community as a film-friendly destination.
The program, run by the New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission, trains local officials on how to handle permits and support film crews. Towns that finish the program are seen as film-friendly places, which helps bring more productions—and business—to communities across New Jersey.