A rendering of The Current on River, a planned 254-unit luxury apartment complex in downtown Hackensack — Courtesy: Hekemian & Co. Inc.
By Joshua Burd
Hekemian & Co. Inc. is set to begin construction on a new 254-unit luxury apartment complex in Hackensack, marking the latest step in the sweeping effort to reinvent the city’s downtown.
The developer, which is based in Hackensack, is planning an Oct. 18 groundbreaking for what will be known as The Current on River. The project on River and East Camden streets is slated to open in 2020, delivering a mix of one- and two-bedroom units across six stories.
“This groundbreaking is another great step in the revitalization of Hackensack’s downtown,” said Bryan Hekemian, principal of Hekemian & Co. and a founding member of the city’s Main Street Business Alliance. “The Current on River will be a luxury apartment community that is in keeping with the vision of the city.”
The firm will host Hackensack Mayor John P. Labrosse Jr. for the groundbreaking ceremony, along with other government officials and representatives of the Main Street Business Alliance. They will mark the start of construction amid other strides in the plan to create a vibrant, mixed-use destination in the city, with a pipeline that’s projected to add more than 2,000 new units and $1 billion in real estate value to the Bergen County seat.
“Hackensack is the natural next destination for millennials and young professionals looking for a beautiful place to call home without paying Manhattan’s prices, or even Hoboken’s prices,” Hekemian said. “As more people move out of Hoboken and Jersey City, cities like Hackensack are well-positioned to become the next ‘it’ place, complete with luxury housing, things to do, and places to eat — all within a bus ride or train from Manhattan.”
March Construction Associates Inc. is serving as construction manager for the project. The plan also includes the planned construction of new commercial space, shops, restaurants and a performing arts center.
At The Current on River, Hekemian hopes to attract young professionals and commuters to New York City with the project’s proximity to public transportation, which includes a 43-minute express bus to Manhattan. Plans also call for a long list of amenities such as an outdoor pool, lounge and courtyard area, along with an indoor club room, fitness center and conference space.
Renters will have access to private balconies, dedicated bike storage and repair space, seven levels of on-site parking and a dog run and pet spa area, Hekemian said. Other amenities include a game room outfitted with billiards and other offerings, plus a coffee bar and Wi-Fi lounge.
“Together with the Main Street Business Alliance, we are committed to the rebirth of this city,” Hekemian said. “My family has been a part of Hackensack for more than 80 years, and we are proud to be a part of a new chapter in the city’s downtown.”
