
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Hackensack NJ, Hackensack’s downtown has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, and its efforts have earned national acclaim. The American Planners Association (APA) has named Hackensack one of its “Great Downtowns” in the annual awards recognizing thriving, vibrant community centers.
Hackensack is one of two New Jersey downtowns honored this year, with the other being Dunellen in Middlesex County.
A Decade of Change
“I’m thrilled. For me, it’s a recognition of all the work that’s been done,” said John Peters, director of the Main Street Business Alliance. “If you look back where we were four or five years ago, there’s no chance we would get an award like this.”
The transformation of Hackensack’s downtown has been driven by new residential developments, the opening of businesses, and a focused effort to create a lively, walkable community.
Events and Initiatives Fuel Growth
The Main Street Business Alliance has spearheaded several initiatives to bring people to Hackensack’s downtown:
- Hackensacktoberfest: The annual fall festival drew thousands to Atlantic Street Park with food, drinks, children’s activities, and entertainment.
- Hackensack Success Hub: In partnership with Fairleigh Dickinson University and the NJ Small Business Development Center, this hub offers free consulting to small businesses on marketing, finance, and more.
- Monthly Small Business Meetups: These events support local entrepreneurs by fostering networking and idea-sharing.
- Games on Main: Monthly board game nights highlight local cafes and restaurants, creating a unique way for the community to connect.
Art and Culture Shine Downtown
Hackensack’s revitalization also includes a celebration of art and history.
- Murals and Sculptures: Local artist Lynn Ochiogrosso’s mural, Hackensack Old and New, captures the city’s past and present at Main Street and Banta Place. Sculptures by Seward Johnson, such as Relish Too? and Who’s in Charge?, have been on display throughout the year.
- Historical Landmarks: The mix of Revolutionary War landmarks, cultural spaces, and modern amenities contributes to Hackensack’s unique appeal.
Residents Fuel Main Street’s Growth
The influx of new apartment buildings has brought foot traffic to downtown businesses and events, further boosting the city’s revitalization efforts.
Hackensack’s accessibility and walkability were highlighted by the APA in their announcement, noting the downtown’s mix of public spaces, dining, retail, and cultural offerings that cater to both longtime residents and visitors.
Looking Ahead: Downtown Hackensack Eats
Later this month, Hackensack will launch a new delivery service, Downtown Hackensack Eats. This initiative offers a lower-cost alternative to services like GrubHub, aiming to reduce delivery fees for restaurants while passing savings on to residents. The service will be available through a dedicated website, downtownhackensackeats.com, expected to go live in about two weeks.
“This is just another way we’re working to support our local businesses and make downtown Hackensack a place where people want to live, work, and play,” Peters said.
Hackensack’s transformation into a bustling, dynamic downtown is a testament to the power of community-driven development and innovative thinking. With new programs on the horizon and continued support for local businesses, the city is poised to build on its success and solidify its place as one of New Jersey’s great downtowns.
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It’s amazing how many businesses are moving out of Ridgewood going to other towns?
Downtown went to $hit after the Army/Navy surplus left 🙂