Dear Editor:
I would like to take this opportunity to recognize the hard work of our residents and Stevens Institute of Technology for their willingness to hear the concerns of their neighbors regarding the proposed Academic Gateway project. Specifically, I am very encouraged by the hard work of the Hudson Street Alliance for their advocacy in seeking a scaled down version of the project. As we can all agree, Stevens is a major asset to our City and continues to draw some of the brightest minds to Hoboken as professors, administrators, and students. There is a visionary and honorable stewardship today, with an associated and demonstrated commitment to enhancing Stevens and, at the same time, contributing to the betterment of Hoboken. As a Stevens alumnus, I know firsthand that Stevens has become a top-tier institution, evidenced by a recent No.3 ranking in Payscale.com’s return-on-investment list and many other achievements. Like other urban institutions, Stevens co-exists within a tight-knit neighborhood of families and residents, and their concerns must be addressed as well. Over several months and five meetings, Stevens and members of the Hudson Street Alliance met to discuss issues important to the surrounding community, including the height of the building and parking. While my understanding is that there some remaining issues, the two sides have worked together and have come to a resolution on most fronts, and a scaled-down version of the project has been proposed. This is a great example of the power of communities engaging in dialogue and cooperation. As Hoboken has a large population in such a dense area, it is important that new development reflect the realities of the neighborhoods and fits the needs of the residents. Keeping that in mind, Hoboken can continue to grow and thrive. As Einstein once said, “Logic will get you from A to B, but imagination can take you anywhere.” I applaud the logic and the imagination of the Hudson Street Alliance and of Stevens in working through a challenge to the ultimate benefit of our City and beyond.
More information for residents of the city can be had by attending the following meetings: The Historic Preservation Commission has been asked by the Zoning Board to review the Gateway application. A meeting will take place on Monday, April 6 at 6 p.m. in the conference room of City Hall.
There will also be a second hearing on the Gateway application by the Zoning Board. This meeting will take place on Tuesday, April 14, at the Multi Service Center, 124 Grand Street at 7 p.m.
Sincerely,
Carmelo G. Garcia
Assemblyman, 33rd District