Mixed-Use Residential Community

Phase I of Vermella at Garwood Station is nearing completion in the vibrant downtown district of Garwood in Union County, NJ. The community welcomed its first residents in late 2021 and will be fully complete in late Spring 2022. Phase II is currently under construction and at completion, Vermella at Garwood Station will include 370 residential units and a dazzling amenity package including a resort-style pool with waterside dining, state of the art media room, and inspired gathering and event spaces only paralleled in the poshest of luxury hotels. It will also boast 19,000 square feet of retail with a full-service restaurant, coffee shop, and service-oriented retail tenants to benefit the residents and the greater community within footsteps of the local train station with direct access to New York City. The inclusive design of the community, with the help of the local planners, will encourage all Township residents to congregate there to enjoy the retail, parking garage, and outdoor plaza.

Russo began the planning process for this challenging project in early 2012 working closely with the property owners and host community. The former buildings were originally used as an Alcoa Metals plant dating back to the early 1920’s and later for a variety of industrial uses. Located in the heart of the Borough’s downtown at the intersection of its two main streets, the site was an eyesore and redevelopment proved challenging because it was controlled by multiple property owners, was heavily contaminated, and existing zoning did not allow mixed-use redevelopment.

Russo Development worked closely with the property owners to secure site control and attended many meetings with Borough representatives and resident groups during the initial planning stages of the project. After years of planning and refinements to the project design, the Borough designated the property as an “Area in Need of Redevelopment”, adopted a Redevelopment Plan, and approved a long-term PILOT or “Financial Agreement” which allowed the project to proceed. Russo also worked closely with State, County, and Federal agencies to secure all other approvals needed for the project to proceed.

Demolition and remediation work begin in early 2018 and vertical construction began in late 2019.

The Russo Development team designed an ambitious project with the highest quality details and contemporary design. At full completion, our community will be a proud symbol for the Township and the newest town center for all residents to enjoy.

Please visit www.vermellagarwood.com for more information on the community or Russo Development at 201-487-5657 for more information on the project.