A new development proposal in the Powerhouse Arts District of Jersey City recently took a step forward as officials greenlit changes that would allow for a 240-unit tower with arts space on the ground floor.
During their August 11 meeting, Jersey City’s Planning Board voted in support of amendments to the Transition Zone of the Powerhouse Arts District Redevelopment Plan. The changes concern several current parking lots at 127 Morgan Street, which sits directly across from the 10 Provost condominium complex, next to The Lively, and across from the under construction 107 Morgan Street.
The developer behind the project is seeking changes that would modify the maximum allowable height from about 12 stories and 125 feet to 20 stories and 210 feet under the proposed modifications. Other changes include an increase the permitted density (FAR) from 8:1 to 15:1, removal of required setbacks, total elimination of off-street parking requirements, and an increase in lot coverage from 80% to 90%.
All of this is in motion to facilitate a 210-foot-tall development that would span 19 stories plus a rooftop amenity floor. Designed by Hoboken-based MVMK Architecture + Design, the project would feature 240 units that break down as 24 studios, 126 one-bedrooms, 74 two-bedrooms, and 16 three-bedrooms.
The developer has proposed 15% of the units to be designated affordable, which is greater than the 10% required under current zoning.
Besides the housing, the proposed project at 127 Morgan would include 4,300 square feet of ground-floor arts space. Nimbus, a local non-profit arts organization, is expected to manage the rent-free space.
The development would also create a 1,600-square-foot outdoor arts garden next to the building, which would utilize glacier white aluminum composite panels with charcoal aluminum window frames on its exterior.
The rooftop amenity on the 20th floor of the proposed complex would include an indoor amenity lounge, an outdoor deck, plus a rooftop pool.
Some concerns were aired by the community during a meeting held earlier this year by the Powerhouse Arts District Neighborhood Association. The included fears about the removal of the existing off-street spaces in the lot, plus concerns about shadows, light, air and open space. Residents also specifically flagged the proposed balconies in the project as worsening privacy at existing buildings.
Jersey City’s Planning Department recommended the zoning changes despite the concerns, with the modifications now heading to the City Council for approval. If they are green-lit there, a separate application approval from the Planning Board would still be required before any construction can begin.
