(Bayonne, NJ) – Bayonne Mayor Jimmy Davis today announced Kate Howard LTD as the developer of Harbor Station South in Bayonne.

Harbor Station South is the designation used for the southwest portion of the former Military Ocean Terminal (MOT) at Bayonne. “This is a major step in the right direction as we pursue full development of the MOT,” said Mayor Davis. Development of the MOT has topped the Davis administration’s agenda as one of its primary goals.

Bayonne City Council President Sharon-Ashe Nadrowski stated, “This is a significant step in finally bringing development to the Base. After over 15 years it is time to deliver on the past’s unfulfilled promises of progress.” This is just one step the administration has taken in a consolidated effort to spur redevelopment. Over the course of the past year the City Council approved the settlement of three separate lawsuits that halted construction and redevelopment of the MOT.

The plan being developed will include a 300-plus room hotel, as well as retail and restaurant space. Upwards of 750 additional residential units will also be part of the plan. Howard H. Li, principal of Kate Howard LTD, expressed his enthusiasm about the announcement: “We are excited to invest in the City. I believe there is great opportunity to bring a world class hotel to the area and a premier shopping experience.” Howard Li is Chairman of the Waitex Group which has owned a major logistics center on Pulaski Street in Bayonne for the past 15 years. Continuing his comments, Mr. Li went on to state that he was drawn to the area based upon its close proximity to New York City, highway access, and public transportation. The land being developed is adjacent to NJ Route 440, and will have direct access to the NJ Turnpike upon the completion of the Interchange 14A improvement project.

Strategic development of Harbor Station South is part of the overall plan for the MOT. In addition to this plan, the City is in the process of approving site plans for 400 residential units by Fidelco, and 500 rental units by Atlantic Realty. Upon completion, these projects will add to Bayonne’s base of ratables, effectively chipping away at the City’s longstanding structural revenue deficit.

Mayor Davis concluded by stating, “Although this is a major development announcement, it is part of an overall plan to redevelop the City. Bayonne is in the early stages of growth with interest from various developers throughout the City.” The City Council and Planning Board recently approved plans for a ten (10) story building on 46^th Street and Broadway, a twenty-two (22) story building near the 8^th Street Light Rail station, and a medical arts building in mid-town in Bayonne.

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