BAYONNE – The city of Bayonne announced on Sept. 16 that Kate Howard Ltd. will be the developer of Harbor Station South, the southwest portion of the Peninsula at Bayonne Harbor, the former Military Ocean Terminal (MOT).
“This is a major step in the right direction as we pursue full development of the MOT,” said Mayor James Davis.
The plan being developed will include a 300-room hotel and retail and restaurant space. In addition, 750 residential units will also be part of the project.
Howard Li, principal of Kate Howard Ltd., said he was enthusiastic about the announcement.
“We are excited to invest in the city,” Li said. “I believe there is great opportunity to bring a world class hotel to the area and a premier shopping experience.”
Li is also chairman of the Waitex Group, which has owned a major logistics center on Pulaski Street in Bayonne for the past 15 years.
Li said he was drawn to the area based upon its proximity to New York City, and its highway access and public transportation. The land being developed is adjacent to Route 440, and will have direct access to the New Jersey Turnpike upon the completion of the ongoing Interchange 14A improvement project.
Development of Harbor Station South is part of the overall plan for the MOT, city officials said. In addition to this agreement, the city is in the process of approving site plans for 400 residential units by Fidelco, and 500 rental units by Atlantic Realty.
City Council President Sharon Nadrowski said the designation of Kate Howard Ltd. was just one step in a multi-tiered effort the administration has taken to spur development in Bayonne.