KRE Group and National Real Estate Advisors recently celebrated the completion of the Journal Squared development — a decade-long effort that has played a pivotal role in revitalizing Journal Square.
The third and final 60-story tower now stands alongside its two predecessors, completing the $900 million, 2.3 million-square-foot project that has redefined the city’s skyline.
Prominently positioned above the Journal Square Transportation Center, Journal Squared has become a cornerstone in the area’s transformation. Over the past decade, it has spurred renewed interest and significant investment in the historic neighborhood, resulting in thousands of new residences, retail spaces, and public areas, along with cultural landmarks like the restored Loew’s Jersey Theater.
Now fully realized, the development encompasses 1,840 rental residences across three towers — soaring 53, 60, and 68 stories into the skyline — along with more than 100,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor amenities.
In addition, 36,000 square feet of street-level retail is integrated into the vibrant Magnolia Landing Plaza, which features the neighborhood’s first supermarket. Created by the developers, Magnolia Landing serves as a neighborhood food hub, showcasing an array of culinary operators while also hosting events such as farmers markets, live performances, and cultural gatherings that further foster a sense of community and connection.
KRE Group and National broke ground on Journal Squared in 2014, just as city officials, led by Mayor Fulop, began championing initiatives to revitalize Journal Square and attract development interest beyond Jersey City’s booming waterfront. The successful leasing of the project’s first tower confirmed the neighborhood’s potential and ignited ongoing development in the area.
“We’re incredibly proud of the community we’ve built here and the role it has played in revitalizing Journal Square. Journal Squared has drawn thousands of residents who embrace the neighborhood’s unique character and culture while enjoying an unparalleled lifestyle. As we celebrate the completion of the final tower, we look forward to continuing to enhance this vibrant community,” Jonathan Kushner, president of KRE Group, said.
“Journal Squared is testament to National’s commitment to building sustainable, community-centered developments nationwide” Jeffrey Kanne, president and CEO of National Real Estate Advisors, said. “More than a decade ago, we set out to create a vibrant hub of convenience, connectivity, and thoughtfully designed living spaces. Today, we are proud to see that vision fully realized.”
Leasing is already thriving at the final tower, which introduces 598 new rental residences. The Marketing Directors, which has overseen leasing for all three buildings, reports strong demand, mirroring the record-setting velocity of the first two towers.
“Journal Squared set a new standard for luxury living in Jersey City, and the exceptional leasing success across all three towers speaks to the appeal of this unique community,” Jacqueline Urgo, president of The Marketing Directors, said. “This final phase continues to attract renters drawn to its outstanding amenities, connectivity, and the energy of Journal Square.”
Designed by Handel Architects and Hollwich Kushner, the final tower offers an impressive array of creative-themed amenities. Residents enjoy a Performance Lounge with bleacher seating, a soundproof Recording Studio, a Karaoke Lounge, a Boxing Gym, and a Sky Lounge with a wet bar and sweeping views. Additional curated spaces, including a stylish Lobby Café & Lounge, elevate the resident experience.
Situated at the gateway to the Journal Square Transportation Center, Journal Squared provides residents with unrivaled access to PATH trains, NJ Transit, and bus lines, making it one of the region’s most well-connected residential communities. Its connectivity, combined with vibrant public spaces and curated retail offerings, has helped Journal Square reclaim its status as Jersey City’s thriving urban core.
