Cranford's mixed-use village is right on schedule.

Construction of the new Cranford Crossing mixed-use village in Cranford, N.J. is progressing rapidly, announced Sam M. Gershwin, president of Westminster Communities, the developer of this $16 million project.

Situated directly across from the Cranford train station, Cranford Crossing will feature approximately 21,000 s/f of ground-floor space and 50 luxury for-sale condominium homes in two buildings that will incorporate a downtown New Urbanism design.

In addition, the company has pledged to build Cranford's first municipally owned parking garage, providing 310 spaces to be shared by commuters, shoppers, retailers and residents.

"I am proud to say that the garage structure has been completed," said Gershwin.

"The steel is up for the ground-floor retail on the East Building and the two residential floors are being framed. Steel for the West Building will be going up shortly."

"We are also moving along with the infrastructure work."

Cranford Crossing is the largest redevelopment undertaken in historic Cranford's downtown business district in more than a century. Westminster Communities has worked closely with township officials to create a project design that would complement Cranford's rich architectural history. The buildings' traditional brick facades will be highlighted with faux stone accents.

The East Building, located at the corner of South Avenue East and Walnut Avenue, will offer nearly 10,000 s/f of retail space, and the West Building, which adjoins the new municipal parking deck, will include approximately 11,000 s/f of retail space fronting South Avenue West and South Union Avenue.

Each building will feature wide archways providing pedestrian access to a covered walkway, all-glass storefronts and storefront canopies with facade signage.

The homes will offer a variety of bright, open floor plans featuring one- and two-bedroom luxury designs.

The retail portion is to be anchored by Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa.

The project's proximity to Cranford's train and bus stations is in keeping with the "transit village" model promoted by New Jersey Transit and the State Department of Transportation.

In 1995, the project was one of four honored with a Smart Growth Award from New Jersey Future as a forward-thinking development that will improve the state's communities while preserving its natural areas.

"Rail stations have always been at the center of growth, recreation, opportunity and access for a community," noted Gershwin.

"Our goal is to restore this area of Cranford to its historic stature. With nearly 400 acres of parkland, excellent schools, and its proximity to public transportation and major commuter roads, Cranford has long been recognized as an ideal place to live and work."