A representation of a new retention pond at Tulfra Real Estate’s Village Center of Rochelle Park at 120 West Passaic St. in Rochelle Park — Courtesy: Tulfra Real Estate
By Joshua Burd
Tulfra Real Estate has kicked off a series of improvements at a development site in Rochelle Park, part of a mixed-use project that will revive a former AT&T data facility.
The firm, which is based in the township, said it is currently focused on beautification efforts at the 7.5-acre parcel at 120 West Passaic St. That will include a series of upgrades to an on-site retention pond on the southwest corner of the property, as well as extensive landscaping throughout that will enhance the site for planned residential and retail uses.
The developer has already completed a 100,000-square-foot, 816-unit self-storage facility at what’s known as Village Center of Rochelle Park.
“This significant next stage of development will transform the old retention pond into a public park — a beautiful setting to walk, get inspired and significantly enhance the quality of life for all residents of the community,” said Sonny Jumani, president and partner of Tulfra Real Estate. “We are eagerly looking forward to seeing these renovations come to fruition.”
According to Jumani, plans for the retention pond renovation include dredging, aerating the surrounding turf and integrating extensive landscaping designed to beautify the pond and help maintain the integrity of the pond walls, according to a news release. Those steps will manage stormwater to prevent flooding, while also adding to the aesthetics of the property.
Landscaping plans call for planting trees, grass, shrubbery and plants alongside the areas of the property that face West Passaic Street and throughout designated open space between the new apartment complex and Sprout Brook.
Tulfra Real Estate acquired the property, a former AT&T data site, in late 2018. Its additional plans include 8,000 square feet of build-to-suit retail space and a 160-unit luxury apartment complex, capitalizing on a location across the street from the Westfield Garden State Plaza, immediate access to major highways and proximity to New York City.
“We are now actively searching for the right mix of retail tenants that will complement the project,” Jumani said. “There are two pads that offer great visibility to the main road.”
Tulfra breaks ground on self-storage project at Rochelle Park redevelopment site