METUCHEN, NJ — Woodmont Properties, one of the region’s leading residential and commercial real estate developers, hosted a groundbreaking celebration at Woodmont Metro at Metuchen Station, the developer’s latest transit-oriented, luxury apartment community. Ideally located in the heart of downtown Metuchen, Woodmont Metro will feature a half-acre, open-space piazza, as well as with 11,500 s/f of shops and restaurants. Local officials including Mayor Thomas Vahalla, who officially broke ground at the site operating the excavator to mark the start of the momentous project, and longtime Metuchen Parking Authority chairman Len Roseman were in attendance, along with Dante Germano, chief operating officer of Nexus Properties and key executives from Woodmont Properties, including chief executive officer Eric Witmondt, president Lewis Zlotnick, executive vice president and general counsel Stephen Santola, along with chief investment officer David Trager. “The perfect addition to our downtown, Woodmont Metro will fit in seamlessly with the character of Metuchen,” said Mayor Vahalla. “From the new shops and restaurants to the stunning high-end apartments, this is truly an exciting time for Metuchen, and a significant milestone in the evolution of our town.”
Located at the corner of Pearl and New streets, Woodmont Metro at Metuchen Station will consist of 273 residential rental units. The shops will comprise 11,500 s/f. The six-level parking deck will offer 750 parking spaces for residents, commuters and shoppers. The first phase of construction will consist of the parking deck, which will be built and managed by Nexus Properties. Germano said, “It has been a pleasure to work alongside of Woodmont Properties on this transformative project for Metuchen and we look forward to taking the first step to make this vision a reality.” Metuchen, just a short train ride to New York City, has often been called “the brainy borough” due to its proximity to the New Brunswick campus of Rutgers University. The area features a wide variety of specialty shops, as well as a unique mix of restaurants, art galleries and entertainment. Vahalla added: “I think Metuchen is truly unique in that it has kept its small town character, but is still very accessible to New York City.” “Metuchen is a one-of-a-kind destination and we’re thrilled to break ground on a project that will bring new vibrancy to the area,” said Santola. “With its location just a few steps from the Metuchen NJ Transit train station and in the heart of Metuchen’s growing downtown, the property offers convenience and walkability – two key factors that continue to attract long-term residents.” Prior to construction, Woodmont Properties relocated and developed a brand new post for the Metuchen American Legion, equipped with a magnificent kitchen and meeting hall space. The 4,205 s/f building was built on property owned by the Parking Authority at Wernik Place and Calvin Place, adjacent to the existing Halsey St. parking lot.