New Jersey City University expands plans for performing arts center
The performing arts and residential building that will anchor New Jersey City University’s University Place development is nearly doubling in size.
The Jersey Journal reports that building, which will feature a 500-seat theater, was originally planned for six stories and 160 residential units, but will now rise 10 stories and have 320 residential units.
The facility will serve as the centerpiece of the University Place development – the university's $400 million venture that will transform a 22-acre tract into a “college town” featuring restaurants, a supermarket, residential projects and university buildings.
Construction on the $90 million centerpiece is set to begin in the fall. It will also be home to the university’s Center for Music, Dance and Theater — which will include the theater, a 100-seat recital hall and three large dance studios. The 320 residential units will occupy the upper floors of the building.
“We’re very excited about the project, and we’re looking forward to building that piece of University Place,” says Anthony Bastardi, CEO of Strategic Development Group, which is overseeing the project.
The performing arts and residential building, which is expected to be completed in 2021, will also be home to the Joffrey Ballet School. The university will offer the dance students a bachelor’s of fine arts degree program in addition to the certifications offered by the ballet school.
When complete, University Place will have five market-rate apartment buildings, in addition to a residence hall for more than 400 students.
