A historic preservation and expansion project that has been in the works for half a decade will finally start to ramp up work in the coming weeks as some fresh images of the St. Lucy’s redevelopment in Jersey City have emerged.
SJP Properties, in partnership with Claremont Development and Battery Global Advisors, have announced a timeline for the development of The Lucy, a 444-unit luxury rental community at 619 Grove Street. The project is being developed with equity partner PCCP, with Cushman and Wakefield’s Capital Markets team arranging the joint venture and Kennedy Wilson serving as construction lender.
Designed by the award-winning firm Michael Graves Architecture, the 24-story tower will deliver 431 market-rate units plus 13 affordable apartments alongside an expansive collection of amenities. The design preserves and restores historically significant portions of the site’s original church, rectory, and school, looking to seamlessly integrate them into a modern residential landmark.
“We are proud to preserve the historic character of this site while creating a modern community that reflects Jersey City’s dynamic growth,” said Steven J. Pozycki, Founder and CEO of SJP Properties. “The result will be a one-of-a-kind living experience with unmatched amenities and design.”
The development of the former St. Lucy’s follows the successful 2023 completion of a 165-bed transitional housing facility across the street that was developed in partnership with the Archdiocese of Newark and Catholic Charities. That building replaces what had been the shelter formerly housed at the historic property.
Jersey Digs has been following the project since it first emerged in 2020 and highlighted the development in a construction update over the summer. Crews were seen cleaning out the property at that time.
A escalation of construction is coming soon, as work is slated to begin at the project in the fall of 2025. Construction is being led by Harrison-based KL Masters Construction Company.
When completed, The Lucy will offer a rooftop pool, sky lounge, sundeck with BBQs, and penthouse bar with skyline views. Previously unreleased renderings have emerged of what that portion will look like, along with images of a resort-style lobby.
Other perks at The Lucy will include coworking and conference rooms, a fitness center, media and game room, a hydroponic garden, and a speakeasy-style space in the historic building’s bell tower. A coffee bar, grab & go market, and dog grooming room are also slated for the property, which will feature a shuttle service to the PATH train.
“This project continues our work to bring much-needed housing to Jersey City while honoring the neighborhood’s history,” said Richard Sciaretta, Managing Partner of Claremont Development in a press release. “We are proud to have completed the facility for Catholic Charities and are pleased to be partnering with SJP and PCCP on the final phase of the development.”
