A church at 3316 Kennedy Boulevard could become a victim of the wrecking ball in favor of a new residential project, as development in one of Jersey City’s hottest neighborhoods continues to move west.
The latest proposal to hit The Heights calls for redeveloping a parcel at the corner of Kennedy Boulevard and Sherman Place. Situated directly across from Leonard Gordon Park, the land is currently owned by Jesus the Healer Filipino Church Incorporated and the building on the lot is not listed on any Historical Register.
In November, the religious organization agreed to sell the entire property to Montclair-based Franklin Development for $1.5 million. Tower Architecture Group, also from Montclair, has drawn up plans for what would be called The Hudson Condominiums, which would demolish the church and construct a new residential building consisting of 20 total units.
Every condominium in the five-story development would sport two bedrooms in a building that would rise about 57 feet. 13 off-street parking spots, in a garage that would be entered on Sherman Place, would be included on the first floor, in addition to storage space for 14 bicycles. Amenity plans at the building include an elevator, first-floor common space, and a 2,410-square-foot roof terrace.
Much has been made about Jersey City’s new construction market being rental heavy, so this project choosing to go condo is a bit of a change of pace. However, the property falls within an R-1 Zone, which is designated for one- and two-family housing. Because of that reality, several variances would be needed for the proposal to move forward, including ones for use and building height.
Franklin Development recently held a community meeting to present their plans, which will head before the city’s zoning board later today, Thursday, May 24. Jersey City Councilman Michael Yun disclosed that if approved, the company anticipates the project will take about 18 months to complete.
