A plan to significantly expand one of New Jersey’s largest malls by adding a mixed-use residential complex, green space, and more hopes to finally get off the ground in 2026 after years of planning.
A proposal to revamp the Garden State Plaza in Paramus has been in the works since before 2020. Retail giant Westfield owns the mall, which first opened in 1957 and is situated along several major highways in Bergen County.
The first phase of the development includes the construction of 550 luxury apartment homes that would be integrated with the shopping center via a one-acre town green for residents, visitors, and shoppers. The endeavor also hopes to introduce a main street outdoor district that would be lined with restaurants, plus everyday conveniences and services.
Westfield recently released new images of the project, which remains somewhat fluid despite years of planning.
“We’re excited to see this project progress as it will provide benefits to a variety of constituents,” said Wesley Rebisz, Senior General Manager of Westfield Garden State Plaza in a statement. “For potential residents, the development will not only offer housing, but a sense of community and easy access to a host of amenities, including retail, dining, and entertainment options.”
“For the greater Paramus area, the development will provide a green space that we plan to activate with exciting family-friendly activities,” she added. “The proximity to the mall will also offer the potential for increased foot traffic for our retailers.”
A future phase of the development includes upgrades to public transportation networks and electric vehicle charging stations, while the developers are additionally exploring the incorporation of a hotel, medical offices and senior living in future portions.
While shovels are not yet in the ground at the property, construction is expected to formally begin on the first phase in early 2026. Westfield is hopeful that the first portion of the redevelopment will be completed by the end of 2027.
