Bergen County Advances Modern Bus Terminal and Housing Project

A transformative county project combining a state-of-the-art bus terminal with workforce housing is moving forward, following a review by the city Planning Board on Wednesday.

The development, designed by Netta Architects, will replace the former Bergen County probation building and current NJ Transit bus terminal at 133 River St. with a modern mixed-use complex focused on serving public service professionals and enhancing public transportation.

"The new bus terminal represents a significant upgrade for thousands of daily commuters," said Jim Tedesco, the county executive. "The times of waiting outside in freezing cold or boiling temperatures will be gone." The terminal will feature a climate-controlled waiting room, modern restrooms, and a convenience area for food and beverages.

Nicholas J. Netta, principal architect at Netta Architects, emphasized the project's innovative approach to urban transit design. "We've created a terminal that not only serves immediate transportation needs but anticipates the future with accommodations for electric buses and improved traffic flow patterns," he said. "The design prioritizes both commuter comfort and environmental responsibility."

The development's residential component addresses another critical community need: affordable housing for early-career public servants. The 15-story tower will include 168 rental units targeted at new police officers, firefighters, nurses, teachers, and other public service professionals.

"This building will provide much-needed housing for veterans, deliver housing for people who may have never been able to afford living in this exciting city, and improve pedestrian and traffic safety in the middle of a city experiencing a true rebirth," Tedesco added.

The project integrates multiple uses within its design. A five-story section will house county offices, retail spaces, a health and wellness center, and parking facilities. The residential tower will feature modern amenities including a rooftop terrace, outdoor activity spaces, and indoor facilities such as a golf simulator and coworking space.

"Our design approach focused on creating a seamless blend of public infrastructure and residential space that serves both commuters and residents while enhancing the urban fabric of Hackensack," Netta noted. "The covered bus terminal, in particular, represents a significant improvement in commuter comfort and operational efficiency."

Ten of the residential units will be reserved for veterans, with two specifically designated for disabled veterans. The county will use a lottery system to select qualified tenants, who can stay in the units during their early career years.

County Administrator Thomas Duch explained the housing concept: "The goal is to give them a year or two in housing like this to strengthen their financial position and move along in their careers. We expect there to be significant demand."

Construction is expected to begin at the end of this year, with an estimated completion time of 18 to 24 months. The project will be financed through the Bergen County Improvement Authority, with costs partially offset by rental income and a long-term agreement with NJ Transit.

Albert Dib, Hackensack's director of redevelopment, praised the project's comprehensive approach: "It's providing housing people are looking for at a cost they can afford, and the transit component will help ensure that downtown Hackensack is a transit hub for commuters coming and going from New York City."

The development joins other major projects in the area, including the nearly complete 696-unit Print House development across River Street and the 389-unit Ivy and Green complex nearby, further cementing Hackensack's ongoing renaissance.