In what sure feels like an increasing trend in northern New Jersey, Kushner has begun the demolition of an aging suburban office building in East Hanover — the first step in creating a 265-unit luxury apartment complex.
The project, at 72 Eagle Rock Ave., is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2025.
The new community will feature a mix of one- to three-bedroom residences housed in four separate four-story buildings — with 53 apartments set aside for affordable housing.
Michael Sommer, executive vice president, development and construction, at Kushner, said the project will have great impact in a Morris County town where many are looking for premier residences.
“Today’s groundbreaking is an exciting milestone for our company and for the township, as we take the next step to develop the first luxury rental apartments ever to be constructed in East Hanover,” he said.
“East Hanover is highly desired by residents who appreciate its small-town, suburban charm in the heart of Morris County. We look forward to adding a new, modern residential option that will appeal to both existing residents and those who will be attracted to this incredible location.”
Morris County Commissioner Stephen Shaw said the transformation of outdated office space for much-needed residential is welcomed.
“(This) wasn’t viable before the pandemic,” he said. “But now, after the pandemic, with work from home, it certainly now is extremely outdated. Office vacancy rates in the area are at an all-time high and apartment vacancy is at an all-time low, and there’s an extreme need for housing in this region.
“That’s why I’m delighted to be here today as we witness this vacant, outdated commercial site that’s going to begin the transformation today to become modern, energy-efficient multifamily housing, which is in high demand in this area. The sharp rise in home prices and interest rates have bolstered the appeal of rental properties for everyone from young professionals to empty-nesters, while providing a well-balanced lifestyle through modern amenities and services.”
Kushner officials hope the resident experience will be further enhanced by a robust amenity offering.
A striking clubhouse will serve as the social and recreational heart of the community, with a modern fitness center including a studio for yoga and fitness on demand, a theater room and residents-only clubroom. There also will be expanded work-from-home spaces, including a conference room and coworking rooms.
Outside, residents will enjoy an expansive sun deck and sparkling pool with pergolas, grilling stations, fire pits, a movie screen, pingpong table and a walking path meandering around the scenic property. Other services will include TULU, an on-demand smart rental offering for high-quality household and lifestyle products.
The community’s location is minutes from Interstate 280 — which means it’s close to Newark and New York City. And it’s not far from Morristown, about 8 miles away.
Kushner President Nicole Kushner Meyer feels the property will fill a need.
“It is amazing to see the growth and development that East Hanover has had over the years, and I am proud that we are breaking ground today on a highly designed and fully amenitized multifamily project,” she said. “We have set the bar incredibly high in designing this East Hanover project to appeal to the modern customer.”
