A long process looking to redevelop several parcels on Hoboken’s west side into one project has finally been greenlit by the city’s zoning board, and the modified development will add a large retail space to be built with a restaurant in mind.
Seven lots at 401-411 Jackson Street were occupied for several decades by the Big Banner Plaza, a no-frills supermarket, liquor store, and restaurant. The business closed in June amid preparations for the future development. The currently vacant property, across the street from Mama Johnson Field, is owned by a company called BC2 Ventures.
The initial proposal for 401 Jackson was first heard by the zoning board all the way back in May. Testimony was taken at three separate hearings and some changes were made from the initial proposal, which was officially approved by the board on November 27 by a 6-1 vote.
The final version of the development, designed by Nastasi Architects, will still raze the entire property to make way for a six-story building sporting 43 residential units, which is down from the initial 44 that were first proposed. The interior of the development has been shifted around to now include 32 garage parking spaces that will utilize a Klaus stacking system, up from the 21 spots included in the May proposal.
The ground floor of 401 Jackson seeks to activate the streetscape and will feature 3,620 square feet of dry flood-proofed retail space that is designed for restaurant use, including a designated kitchen area and exhaust system in the layout. The design of the building itself features an exterior with large glass components that would allow passersby to see through into the restaurant, a 1,900-square-foot lobby, and several backyard green spaces in the development.
The elevator building will have plenty of amenities, including a 2,000-square-foot common courtyard located at the back of the property. 401 Jackson’s second floor will feature both a 3,300-square-foot exterior terrace and a 1,300-square-foot interior lounge area. A third-floor gym and a 3,200-square-foot common roof deck including green roof features are also included.
Other changes or additions to the building since first being proposed include a bicycle storage area and electric car charging stations. The building’s sixth floor will now be set back from the street in a design change, but the development will still feature cementitious masonry on much of the exterior, in addition to brick face on the base of the building.
Hoboken’s ordinances require four affordable housing units be included in the project, but the developer will be designating five units as affordable. Four new street parking spaces will be added when the project is completed due to the elimination of existing curb cuts. No timeline has been announced for the groundbreaking, but the property appears ready to go.
