Silbert Realty to handle Cranford project of the century.

Silbert Realty & Management Company Inc. has been appointed as exclusive leasing agent and consultant for the retail component of the Cranford Crossing mixed-use redevelopment, announced Ira Bloom, director of commercial leasing for Kushner Properties. Cranford Crossing is the largest redevelopment project undertaken in Cranford, N.J. in more than a century.

The $16 million project, being constructed by Kushner's development arm, Westminster Communities, will feature approximately 22,000 s/f of ground floor retail space, in addition to 50 upscale rental homes, in two mid-rise buildings. The company is also constructing the township's first municipally owned parking garage.

The available retail space allotments in Cranford Crossing range from 800 to 8,700 s/f. The ground-level retail space will be ideal for restaurants, specialty shops, fitness centers and service retailers such as brokerage firms, insurance agencies and banks.

Designed to reflect the rich architectural history of Cranford Cranford Crossing will feature a traditional red brick facade, divided light windows and a classic cupola atop the clock tower.

The East Building, located at the corner of South Avenue East and Walnut Avenue, will offer approximately 10,595 s/f of retail space. The West Building, which will adjoin the new municipal parking deck, will include approximately 10,525 s/f of retail space.

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

Groundbreaking is expected to take place in spring 2004, with completion set for summer 2005.

Cranford Crossing is expected to attract more than just the local population, according to Silbert.

"Because of its location in the middle of Cranford's Special Improvement District, across the street from the New Jersey Transit bus and train station, Cranford Crossing will enhance the township's reputation as a shopping destination for people from all over the region," he said.

"Our location is easily accessible to pedestrians, and ample parking provided by the New Jersey Transit parking lots, the new municipal parking garage and the metered parking along the street make it convenient for those using mass transit or driving here."