EATONTOWN – Demolition has begun on the site of the former Monmouth Mall in Eatontown, which will be replaced by an open-air residential complex.
The controversial developer, Kushner, officially broke ground May 9 on “Monmouth Square.” The over $500 million project will transform the area into 900,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space.
According to the developer, the facility will feature an expansive public green, a network of pedestrian pathways, 1,000 residential units, and medical office space; in addition to a Whole Foods Market.
Monmouth Square reflects Kushner’s initiative to “de-mall” the historic Monmouth Mall. With shifting retail trends and consumers changing their shopping preferences, these key points have influenced the decision to redesign the mall.
Joining in the commencement of the project was Senator Vin Gopal (D-Monmouth), Eatontown Mayor Anthony Talerico, Jr., fellow council members, and other local dignitaries.
“This notable project will serve as a model for transforming underused malls into vibrant, community centers that cater to residents’ lifestyle needs,” Laurent Morali, CEO of Kushner, said. “We are turning the traditional mall concept inside out, creating free-standing, easily-accessible retail and dining spaces seamlessly integrated with a public green and new luxury apartments.”
The current demolition will shrink the retail footprint by 40%, eliminating 600,000 square feet. The former space that held the Lord & Taylor, which closed its doors in 2018 before filing for bankruptcy, as well as the JCPenney department store, will both be torn down.
Whole Foods Market is slated to move into space currently occupied by Barnes & Noble, Kushner said. The Barnes & Noble will now relocate to a new retail building in the town center.
In addition, retailers such as the AMC movie theater, Macy’s, and Boscov’s will remain open during construction.
The 1,000 apartments will be a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes. The site will also include a 40,000-square-foot clubhouse inclusive of a fitness center, spa/wellness space, juice bar/café, coworking lounge, media room, library, pickleball court, half basketball court, golf simulator, children’s room, pet spa and TULU room (featuring items people want to rent but not buy).
“Monmouth Square represents a transformative vision that will significantly enhance Eatontown and the surrounding area,” Nicole Kushner Meyer, President of Kushner, said. “We are committed to creating a destination that not only elevates the quality of life for residents but also positively contributes to the fabric, appeal, and economic vitality of the entire community.”
Monmouth Square isn’t the only development Kushner has been working on in Monmouth County. Last month, the developer broke ground on a mixed-use residential and retail development in Long Branch that will deliver 299 rental residences, a SuperFresh grocery market and a neighborhood café to a vacant stretch of downtown. Additionally, Kushner will also break ground on a new residential development in Colts Neck, featuring 15 three-story buildings with 360 residences and upscale amenities.
Kushner Properties is run by the Kushner family. The company has decades of controversies regarding funding and federal programs that benefitted them.
-Chris Lundy contributed to this story
