HACKENSACK — The city gave final approval Monday to a plan that would allow high-density residential and commercial development on a State Street block characterized by gravel lots and vacant buildings.

The Council voted unanimously to approve a redevelopment plan for several lots between Warren and Bergen streets.

The plan, introduced in December, designates the lots as "in need of redevelopment" changes zoning laws to encourage mixed-use development allow for up to 230 residential units. Aside from a Chase Bank branch, the block is mostly covered in gravel lots and vacant buildings due for demolition.

"The adoption of this plan tonight brings us one critical step closer to seeing shovels in the ground," Mayor Mike Melfi said in a release.

The State Street redevelopment plan is part of a larger effort to overhaul downtown Hackensack. Adopted in June, the Main Street Rehabilitation Plan calls for changes that encourages mixed-use development through measures like an easier building approval process and two-way traffic on Main Street.

Developers gave the plan high marks at a presentation in September. At that presentation, officials hinted that a big project announcement was forthcoming, but gave few details.

Click here to read the State Street Redevelopment Plan [pdf] »

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