Work starts on $16m Jersey transit village.

Construction has begun on Cranford Crossing, a new transit-oriented downtown village in Cranford, New Jersey, which will be the largest redevelopment project undertaken in the township's downtown business district in a century, announced Sam M. Gershwin, president of Westminster Communities, the developer.

Located one block from the train station in the historic Union County municipality, the $16 million Cranford Crossing will feature approximately 22,000 square feet of ground-floor retail space and 50 luxury, for-sale condominium homes, in three- and four-story buildings.

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

Designed to complement the rich architectural history of Cranford's thriving downtown area, the buildings' traditional brick facades will highlight a neo-classical clock tower and faux stone accents.

The 50 condominium homes will cater to commuters and those attracted to the convenience and charm of a downtown lifestyle, combining immediate access to the train station with convenient retail amenities. The homes will offer a variety of bright, open floor plans featuring one- and two-bedroom and two-bath luxury designs.

According to Gershwin, Cranford Crossing will be an exemplary redevelopment project for New Jersey, showcasing the 'transit village' model that New Jersey Transit and the State Department of Transportation promote.

"Transit villages incorporate passenger rail stations as a focal point," he explained. "The goal is to return the stations to their historical stature as places where growth, recreation, opportunity and access convene to foster commerce and economic redevelopment. With nearly 400 acres of parkland, excellent schools, and its quintessential suburban setting, Cranford has long been recognized as a desirable place to live and work."