A long-running saga looking to revitalize a warehouse in The Heights might finally conclude this week as Jersey City officials could sign off on a scaled-back development spanning an entire block.
Back in 2019, an entity called MJSMS LLC began their efforts to redevelopment an industrial property at 107 New York Avenue. The company initially envisioned an 18-story high-rise on the land before settling on a nine-story version that was unveiled during a community meeting.
When that plan was met with significant opposition, a smaller version that would have risen six floors and adaptively reused the current building was pitched to the zoning board. But the 75-unit development was rejected by officials, which caused the developer to sue the city in October 2020 alleging an improper denial.
Jersey Digs has now learned that the lawsuit has been settled, with Hudson County Judge Kimberly Espinales-Maloney approving the consent order last month. The city’s zoning board is slated to hold what is known as a “Whispering Woods” hearing on a smaller proposal, which allows cities to settle zoning board lawsuits but requires giving the public the opportunity to be heard on the terms.
Designed by Hoboken-based MVMK Architecture, the settlement’s plan will still adaptively reuse the two-story building and expand it by two floors. The complex would include 48 total units breaking down as 27 one-bedroom residences and 21 two-bedroom spaces, with select homes featuring private balconies.
The potential building, which would be entered via a lobby at New York Avenue’s intersection with Ferry Street, would also include 48 parking spaces in a garage slated to utilize a three-car stacking system.
Perks for residents at the complex would include a 1,000-square foot amenity area on the third floor, a fourth-floor gym with an outdoor terrace near the center of the building, and an extensive rooftop amenity space with outdoor kitchens, dining areas, and lounge sections.
Facade materials to be used on the project include modular brick alongside brushed aluminum components. The appearance of the latest proposal is similar to a plan Jersey Digs reported on earlier this year, when the developer presented a five-story, 60-unit proposal to the Riverview Neighborhood Association.
The city’s zoning board is scheduled to hear comments from the public and potentially vote on the settlement agreement during their September 8 meeting, which is being held virtually on Zoom. Beginning at 6:30 p.m., the meeting can be accessed at this link or by using the webinar ID 867 8587 1378.
