the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Hackensack NJ, is making significant strides in its commitment to “affordable housing” with two major projects moving forward on Essex Street and Railroad Place. These developments are part of the city’s broader efforts to address housing needs and fulfill obligations under its agreement with the Fair Share Housing Center.
This week, the Hackensack City Council took a key step by introducing a measure to adopt a redevelopment plan for a property located at the corner of Essex and Main streets. This site, currently an empty lot, was designated as an area in need of redevelopment back in May. The proposed plan envisions a seven-story, 250-unit apartment building that will significantly transform the southern side of the intersection.
The project falls within one of the city’s three “inclusionary zones,” which span Hudson Street, Main Street, Johnson Avenue, Essex Street, and Railroad Avenue. These zones were established as part of Hackensack’s settlement with the Fair Share Housing Center to meet its affordable housing obligations. Under the terms of this agreement, developers in these zones are required to set aside 10% of new units for affordable housing.
Deputy Mayor Kathy Canestrino highlighted the impact of the Essex Street project, noting that it will provide 25 affordable units. Additionally, the developer may contribute to a “community commitment” payment, which could potentially support the restoration of the greenhouse in Johnson Park.
In a related development, the City Council also passed a resolution designating a redeveloper for a project at 251 Railroad Place, and approved the sale of the city-owned property to the developer. The council had previously adopted a redevelopment plan for this site, which will see the construction of 24 low-rise townhome units. These units will include a mix of six three-bedroom, 14 two-bedroom, and four one-bedroom homes, all of which will be designated as affordable housing.
“This is where the city had a strip of a parking lot that was basically underutilized,” Canestrino explained, emphasizing the strategic use of city resources to support affordable housing development. The property, assessed at $298,000, will be transferred to the developer, along with funds from the city’s affordable housing trust fund, to facilitate the project.
These projects represent significant progress in Hackensack’s ongoing efforts to increase “affordable housing” options for its residents. The public hearing for the Essex Street redevelopment plan is scheduled for next month, offering residents an opportunity to engage with and learn more about these transformative developments.
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