Residential real estate development in Jersey City shows no signs of slowing down and, while the density of new construction isn’t quite what it is Downtown, McGinley Square is no exception. Plenty of projects for the neighborhood less than one mile south of Journal Square are planned: the ambitious 16-story mixed-use tower, 289 Jordan, near the Jersey City Armory, and the equally as ambitious and tall mixed-use building called The Rise at 711 Montgomery Street, both slated to start construction this year. Currently underway around the corner on Bergen Avenue, however, is the first new development in the area for some time.
Located near the corner of Fairmount and Bergen Avenues, the ongoing construction is a familiar sight. Aptly named The Fairmount at McGinley Square and anticipated to come online this fall, Jersey Digs received an inside look at KABR Group’s new residential development.
Starting outside, The Fairmount at McGinley Square’s facade is taking shape with a combination of brick and steel. The finished look will aim to bring a warehouse feel to the streetscape but still complement the existing older buildings, including the red brick building on the corner that The Fairmount at McGinley Square is essentially built around.
The ground floor houses two retail spaces with large windows and frontage along Bergen Avenue, totaling around 3,200 square feet. Around the corner on Fairmount Avenue will be the main residential entrance for tenants. Access to parking for up to 30 cars will also be available.
The Fairmount at McGinley Square rises to four floors and will offer a mix of studios, one bedrooms, and two bedrooms across its 58 apartments. Chairman of the KABR Group, Kenneth Pasternak, said they have the local community in mind as potential renters, citing the proximity to Saint Peter’s University. Considering dorm rates when pricing the units, Mr. Pasternak said that “The Fairmount at McGinley Square could be a college community.”
Mr. Pasternak highlighted the design intent of the development and stressed the use of high-end materials and finishes, calling it “Hoboken quality.” During the planning process, community feedback was sought and heard and Mr. Pasternak reaffirmed KABR Group’s commitment to the project and their desire to really “invest in the neighborhood.”
The Fairmount at McGinley Square, just by virtue of being new construction, is definitely a departure for the neighborhood and a refreshing option for renters. The building and neighborhood also benefit from a burgeoning cafe, restaurant, and bar scene.
Honey Bakery, less than two blocks away at 673 Bergen Avenue, is a charming cafe with outdoor seating, serving small plates of Russian and Korean specialties plus pastries and coffee. The recently opened Crema is a sweet ice cream shop located on the ground floor of a brownstone at 695 Bergen Avenue. Carvao at 686 Bergen Avenue is casual pit-smoked BBQ and a full bar fun for watching a game or just hanging out. And McGinley Square Pub has become something of an institution since re-opening on Montgomery Street in 2015, serving craft beer over board games.
And with The Fairmount at McGinley Square’s, as well as the overall neighborhood’s, easy access to NJ Transit buses and walkability to Journal Square, it can certainly compete when it comes to the convenience of living in Jersey City.
