During their February 21 meeting, Jersey City’s Planning Board unanimously recommended a proposal for 14 Enos Place, just off of Summit Avenue, from Hudson County Community College (HCCC).
Jersey City’s Journal Square area is set to undergo a significant change after the approval of an 11-story tower designed by NK Architects. The new development, which received the green light from city officials, is expected to bring more housing and commerce options to the area.
The HCCC building is slated to include 24 state-of-the-art classrooms, expanded spaces for student services, as well as centralized offices for Continuing Education and Workforce Development. Other sections of the building will house a black box theater, a full-size NCAA regulation gymnasium and fitness center, a University Center for sister colleges, a new healthcare lab, student common areas, and administrative offices for the college.
With its central location and easy access to transportation, Journal Square has long been a sought-after destination. HCCC Board of Trustees Chairman William Netchert stated, “Urban college campuses such as ours require special considerations for students and neighbors in the surrounding community,. This new tower will substantially accommodate those needs.”
Hudson County announced late last year that they have committed $35 million in funding towards the project. The tower has also received a $2.2 million grant from the federal government.
The Planning Board’s approval of the 11-story tower marks a significant milestone for Journal Square’s ongoing revitalization efforts. As the area continues to grow and change, it will be important for city officials and developers to work closely with the community to ensure that the benefits of development are shared by all.
