Hoboken’s northern gateway is poised for a dramatic transformation as plans for a multi-phase, four-building project were advanced this week, signaling the end of decades-long vacancies along 15th Street. The City Council unanimously approved redevelopment agreements on December 17 for parcels long held by subsidiaries of the Rockefeller Group, marking a significant step toward revitalizing one of the city’s fastest-growing neighborhoods.
The four parcels, largely dormant since the early 2000s, have drawn increasing interest as Hoboken continues to grow and densify. Rockefeller Group’s plan, designed by CetraRuddy Architects, envisions a combination of residential, retail, public parking, and open space improvements across more than 700 new units. The phased approach aims to balance community needs, commercial opportunities, and enhanced urban infrastructure.
Phase one of the project will focus on the iconic Stahl Soap Company site at 1413-1425 Willow Avenue. This initial phase will introduce 233 rental units, including a 10% affordable housing component, along with 5,621 square feet of public open space. Addressing local parking challenges, a 424-space garage will be constructed, 275 spaces of which will be leased to the city under a long-term agreement, with the remaining spaces reserved for tenants. Additionally, a temporary surface lot with 50 public spaces will be maintained during construction to mitigate neighborhood disruption.
Subsequent phases will expand the development footprint along 1501-1507 Clinton Street and 1500 Willow Avenue, currently occupied by a car wash. This portion will include 188 rental units with a continued 10% affordable housing allocation, over 11,000 square feet of retail space, and public open areas totaling more than 21,700 square feet. A 6,000-square-foot promenade will connect the phases, creating a continuous public gathering space and pedestrian corridor. Another building at 1524-1530 Willow Avenue will feature 126 condominium units, retail space, and 135 parking spaces, further enhancing the pedestrian-oriented plaza.
The final phase, located at 1500 Park Avenue near the under-construction Harborside Park, will add 182 condominiums, 152 parking spaces, and nearly 16,000 square feet of ground-floor retail. Gateway Plaza, encompassing over 20,600 square feet along 16th Street across from the 1600 Park athletic fields, will provide additional public space and reinforce community accessibility throughout the project.
While the City Council’s approval of redevelopment agreements is a major milestone, Rockefeller Group will still need planning board clearance and other municipal approvals before construction can begin. Community engagement, adherence to affordable housing commitments, and integration with ongoing city infrastructure projects will remain central considerations as the project moves forward.
This ambitious redevelopment signals Hoboken’s continued evolution and represents one of the most significant north-end transformations in the city’s recent history. Residents and investors alike are anticipating the creation of vibrant mixed-use spaces that combine residential living with retail opportunities, improved public amenities, and thoughtful urban design. Coverage of Hoboken’s ongoing urban development and other real estate projects across the state can be found in Explore New Jersey’s Real Estate section.
With nearly 730 new units, expanded public plazas, and integrated retail, Rockefeller Group’s vision promises to redefine the city’s northern corridor, blending historic preservation with modern urban growth and creating a more connected, lively, and accessible Hoboken community.
