Newark Business & Culture

Downtown/Central Ward CRE surge with 900 Broad, Summit Tower, Ironbound $500M school lease advancing, Terreno, MIG + Prudential layoffs + Baraka SOTC + NJIN Hahne’s + res sales + Highland Views + Iron65 + Mulberry Commons + Youth Summit

Downtown/Central Ward CRE surge with 900 Broad, Summit Tower, Ironbound $500M school lease advancing, Terreno, MIG + Prudential layoffs + Baraka SOTC + NJIN Hahne’s + res sales + Highland Views + Iron65 + Mulberry Commons + Youth Summit

Key Questions

What is the status of Highland Views development?

Highland Views Phases 1 and 2 on Evans Ave, with over 180 units, had a groundbreaking on March 24. This project contributes to the Central Ward's residential growth.

Details on the Iron65 project?

Iron65 is a 135-unit development on McWhorter Street with a $56M sale. It represents part of the Downtown and Central Ward commercial real estate surge.

What is happening with the Ironbound Riverfront Elementary school lease?

The $500M lease for Ironbound Riverfront Elementary is advancing, targeting completion in 2028. It faces GOP rejection push and probes into Fields and pay-to-play issues.

When does construction start on Summit Tower?

Summit Tower, with 514 units, is starting construction as part of the downtown CRE surge alongside 900 Broad tower.

What is the Youth Power Action Summit?

The Youth Power Action Summit, for ages 14-24, is scheduled for April 11 with The Gem Project. It includes a fireside chat with Newark school board candidates.

What did Mayor Baraka highlight in his State of the City address?

Mayor Ras Baraka's State of the City on March 31 emphasized Newark's progress, named 'worst landlords,' and stated 'Newark is on the rise.' A community response is planned via Public Square Amplified.

What are recent residential sales trends in Newark?

From March 23-29, Newark area residential sales had a median price of $660k. The most expensive home sold for $925,000.

What is NJIN at Hahne’s Building?

NJIN at the Hahne’s Building opened with Sheryl Swoopes and Mayor Baraka. It provides healthcare accessibility in central Newark.

Highland Views Phases 1&2 Evans Ave >180 units groundbreaking Mar 24; Iron65 135 units McWhorter $56M sale; 900 Broad tower; Summit Tower starts (514 units); Ironbound Riverfront Elementary $500M lease advances amid GOP rejection push/Fields probe/pay-to-play (2028); Mulberry Commons Phase 2; Shabazz robotics win (Lehigh Apr); Youth Power Action Summit/school board chat Apr 11; Terreno to 2036; MIG mgmt; Prudential layoffs; NJT LAND Apr 21; Planning Apr 1; NJIN Hahne’s opens; mayoral election DOJ request; Baraka SOTC Mar 31; Mar 23-29 res sales median $660k; Essex jobs.

Sources (17)
Updated Apr 8, 2026