The path has been cleared to bring a sizable storefront to a prominent Bergen-Lafayette intersection as part of a mixed-use redevelopment that will create some affordable housing units.
During their March 11 meeting, Jersey City’s zoning board unanimously approved a plan to overhaul an 11,700-square-foot property at 475 Communipaw Avenue. Jersey Digs first reported on the proposal back in January and the project was modified a bit following some feedback from public meetings.
The land currently hosts the Perfect Touch Express Lube & Car Wash Center and is directly across the street from Hooked JC. The parcel was purchased for $2.3 million earlier this year by a company called 475 Communipaw Ave JT LLC, who has been authorized to tear down the car wash and replace it with a new development designed by Bodnar Architectural Studio.
The approved plans call for the construction of a five-story building set to include a 6,177-square-foot commercial space on the ground floor. The development’s basement will consist of a garage with 22 parking spaces and a bicycle room with space for 47 bikes is also included in the plans.
The remaining floors of the project will feature 40 residential units, breaking down as 24 one-bedroom units and 16 two-bedroom units. Four of the one-bedroom spaces are slated to be set aside as affordable housing for those making 50-80 percent of the Area Median Income.
Other features of the project include a 1,440-square-foot deck and garden on the roof complete with areas for planters, a gym for residents, and a first-floor lounge space. The development is slated to utilize aluminum cladding, cement board, and brick veneer on its exterior.
The property, which is irregularly shaped and features a unique slope, is located within an R-1 District that allows one- and two-family homes as of right. As a result, the zoning board granted the developer variances related to use and height, as only three stories are allowed under current zoning. A groundbreaking date for the project has not yet been announced.
