After nearly a decade of delays, the long-anticipated Hilton hotel along Hoboken’s waterfront may finally be on the verge of breaking ground. The project, slated for One Sinatra Drive, has recently received a significant boost in the form of an Aspire Program tax credit from the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), offering renewed optimism for the development’s future.
Originally announced in 2016, the proposed Hilton hotel quickly generated attention for its prime location along the Hudson River and its potential to complement Hoboken’s vibrant waterfront. Early excitement, however, was followed by legal battles that slowed progress. One lawsuit in particular caused major delays, and the unprecedented impact of the COVID-19 pandemic further complicated timelines. Despite these hurdles, small advances continued behind the scenes, keeping the project alive.
Ownership of the site shifted more than three years ago when KMS Development Partners acquired the property. At the time, the company projected construction would begin in spring 2023, a milestone that was ultimately delayed. Today, the project is under the management of One SD Hoboken, which has secured a tax credit from NJEDA covering 60 percent of the project cost, capped at $63.4 million.
NJEDA CEO Tim Sullivan emphasized the broader impact of the initiative, noting that the Aspire Program has been a driving force behind transit-oriented development across New Jersey. “Adding a new major hotel to Hoboken’s iconic waterfront will attract tourism and spur economic activity in the area, building a stronger, more resilient city that will benefit Hoboken residents for decades to come,” Sullivan said.
Designed by Cooper Carry Associates, the hotel will feature 349 rooms alongside a second-floor restaurant and bar. Plans also include a ground-floor retail space of 959 square feet, and a rooftop bar and event area with a 2,899-square-foot outdoor terrace, promising sweeping views of the Hudson and Manhattan skyline. The property will occupy a former parking lot located behind the Frank Sinatra Post Office, which itself is slated for renovations as part of the overall project. Guests will benefit from a valet parking agreement with a nearby garage, ensuring a seamless visitor experience.
Sustainability is a key focus for the Hoboken Hilton, which will be constructed to meet U.S. Green Building Council LEED Silver standards. Complementing the hotel’s footprint, a pocket park will be developed between the building and the post office, enhancing streetscape appeal. Infrastructure improvements and street-level enhancements are also included in the redevelopment plan, ensuring the project integrates smoothly into Hoboken’s urban landscape.
Despite the recent tax credit award, the construction timeline has not yet been officially announced. The hotel’s proximity to Hoboken Terminal, one of the city’s most historic transportation hubs, positions it strategically to attract travelers and convention-goers alike. The terminal itself has been undergoing a major renovation, which began heavy construction earlier this year, signaling a period of renewal for the area’s waterfront district.
For those interested in following the progress of the Hoboken Hilton and other major developments across the state, Explore New Jersey Real Estate offers a comprehensive look at projects shaping communities, from luxury residential towers to mixed-use commercial hubs.
As Hoboken continues to grow and evolve, the Hilton hotel represents both a significant economic opportunity and a testament to the city’s resilience. With the Aspire Program tax credit now in hand, residents, visitors, and business leaders alike are hopeful that construction will finally move forward, bringing a new era of hospitality and activity to the waterfront.
