Downtown Jersey City’s northern edge is experiencing an unprecedented boom, transforming what was once a series of overlooked industrial pockets into a vibrant, amenity-rich urban landscape. This exciting evolution, marked by significant new construction and thoughtful civic improvements, is reshaping the very fabric of the community, no matter what locals choose to call it—be it SoHo West, Lackawanna, or the Horseshoe.
For years, this area faced its share of challenges, but a clear path to revitalization emerged in the late 2010s. Now, that vision is rapidly becoming a reality. A wave of new residential developments is rising, complemented by crucial streetscape enhancements, new green spaces, and vital flood mitigation projects, all contributing to a more livable and resilient neighborhood.
Residential Renaissance Takes Shape
Among the latest projects making their mark is the impressive development at 290 Coles Street. This joint venture from The Albanese Organization, BXP, and CrossHarbor Capital Partners is set to introduce 670 modern apartments and 13,000 square feet of ground-floor retail within two striking residential towers, soaring 14 and 21 stories high above a multi-level podium. This new construction adds considerable density and vibrancy to the area.
Just across the street, 305 Coles Street has been steadily advancing since earlier this year. This U-shaped complex will feature two 12-story buildings, collectively housing 511 residential units. Notably, this project is designed to directly connect with the adjacent Coles Street Park, seamlessly integrating new living spaces with established green areas. As part of its design, a new pedestrian plaza is also being created along 17th Street, nestled between the development’s two buildings, providing an inviting public space alongside six new retail storefronts.
Further demonstrating the area’s rapid transformation, the second and third phases of the Hudson House redevelopment are nearing completion. This extensive project encompasses three new residential towers alongside the adaptive reuse of a historic five-story factory building, originally constructed by the Continental Can Company in the 1920s. The second tower, a 26-story high-rise, is almost finished and will contribute 338 units to the neighborhood’s growing housing stock. The ongoing adaptive reuse of the six-story warehouse portion is particularly exciting, promising 140 unique residences coupled with an expansive 48,000 square feet of ground-floor retail. Locals will be thrilled to learn that Cangiano’s, a beloved neighborhood favorite, has already committed to occupying one of these new storefronts, planning to offer everything from a pizza oven and gelato to a fryer and a dry-aged meat case. Both portions of the Hudson House development are anticipated to begin leasing operations later this summer, bringing new residents and amenities to the area.
Investing in Community and Green Infrastructure
Beyond the impressive residential towers, significant civic improvements are actively enhancing the neighborhood’s quality of life. Jersey City recently undertook a thoughtful renovation of an underpass connecting this burgeoning area to Hamilton Park. This vital link now boasts new lighting, improved sidewalks, and a dedicated bike lane, creating a more welcoming and safer passage for pedestrians and cyclists alike.
To the north, the federally funded Rebuild By Design initiative is making substantial progress in mitigating flood risks along the Hudson River waterfront. A critical portion of this effort involves the construction of a robust flood wall along Jersey Avenue, with work actively underway near the Hudson Bergen Light Rail tracks. This crucial infrastructure project will provide long-term protection against the impacts of severe weather and rising tides.
The community is also set to gain a brand-new green space with the near-completion of the 16th Street Park renovation. What was once an underutilized space is being completely reimagined, now featuring new basketball courts, a modern playground, comfortable seating areas, and more, all poised to welcome residents later this year. The transformation of this park is a testament to Jersey City’s commitment to providing accessible and high-quality recreational spaces.
Additionally, a major adaptive reuse project is beginning at the former St. Lucy’s Shelter. While a modern shelter facility opened in 2023 to replace the previous one, work is now underway to restore and expand the historic church building. Though a precise timeline for the planned vertical expansion has yet to be announced, construction equipment and regular activity on site suggest progress is indeed being made on this significant undertaking.
Looking ahead, this dynamic section of Jersey City has even more in the pipeline. Approved projects that have yet to break ground include the redevelopment of the former Salvation Army site, Lefrak’s Rampart House along a former elevated rail line, and another substantial 322-unit, two-tower project approved in 2023 on Jersey Avenue, near the Hoboken border.
This northern frontier of Downtown Jersey City is a testament to thoughtful urban development, blending residential growth with essential civic enhancements and a strong focus on community well-being. For more insights into New Jersey’s evolving real estate landscape and urban transformations, visit our Real Estate section.
