A company that paid more than $300,000 in 2018 for a house in Newark’s South Ward is now planning major changes to the property.

Gilliard Real Estate Holdings is seeking to tear down the structure at 561-563 Elizabeth Avenue in the Weequahic neighborhood in order to construct a new six-story building. The firm is scheduled to go before the Newark Zoning Board of Adjustment this week to request Preliminary and Site Plan approval with multiple variances so that the project can move forward, according to a legal notice.

Located opposite Weequahic Park at the corner of Mapes Avenue, the house at 561-563 Elizabeth Avenue was previously owned by Sunshine Daycare Center and Philemon Missionary Baptist Church. This building previously included daycare centers such as Just Care 4 Children and under the current development proposal, a similar operation might be returning to the property. The new complex that is being proposed would consist of a daycare center serving close to 180 students along with 10 apartments.

This matter is expected to be heard during a meeting on Thursday, February 20, at 7:00 p.m. at City Hall.

Note to readers: The dates that applications are scheduled to go before the Newark Zoning Board of Adjustment and other commissions are subject to change.

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