Applied Development to build Hoboken's W hotel.

Applied Development Company has officially signed an agreement with W Hotels to build the W Hoboken Hotel and Residences along this city's southern Hudson River waterfront.

The new 25-story hotel will feature 225 rooms and 40 luxury condominium residences, reports the Hoboken-based developer.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. will operate the facility, which is being designed by the award-winning architectural firm Gwathmey Siegel & Associates.

Scheduled to open in September of 2006, the hotel and residences will be the fourth of its type in the U.S. to carry the "W" name, joining similar facilities in Scottsdale, AZ; Fort Lauderdale, FL and Dallas, TX. It will be the 26th hotel to join the brand's growing worldwide portfolio.

"This is a remarkable milestone in the history of this city," said Hoboken Mayor Dave Roberts at a press conference called to announce the official agreement. "It will be a joint undertaking by one of the premier hotel providers in the nation and one of New Jersey's most prominent developers, owners and managers of real estate."

"It is also a major step in enabling Hoboken to take its rightful position as one of the leading cities in both Hudson county and the state at a time when it is celebrating its 150th anniversary."

The new W Hotel will be ideally located on the riverfront, with spectacular unobstructed views of the Manhattan skyline.

"Bringing an architect of Charles Gwathemy's stature into the fold will ensure that this will be a world-class facility that will stand as a proud landmark along this city's waterfront," said Michael Barry, an Applied principal.

"The hotel's proximity just steps from the Ferry terminal and PATH station will allow guests and residents to conveniently enjoy Manhattan's business, cultural and entertainment venues, while the Meadowlands Sports complex, Newark Liberty International Airport and the restaurants, shops and nightlife of Hoboken's vibrant downtown district are also close at hand."

The striking hotel will feature W's signature Living Room experience, a bar with panoramic Manhattan views, a destination restaurant, a 5,000 s/f Bliss Spa and fitness facility and more than 11,000 s/f of meeting space.

"Condominium owners will have all the benefits of being attached to a W Hotel," Mr. Barry said. "This includes full use of all facilities, as well as the option to enjoy 24-hour room service, daily maid service and concierge services."