Snowflakes were reported in Hudson County last weekend, signaling the first official snowfall of the year. It’s been an eventful week and we’ve gathered the latest local news roundup to keep you up-to-date. Among the headlines: Citi Bike is raising its prices again this month; Dave and Buster’s is coming to Newport Centre in Jersey City; and Craig Guy assumed the role of Hudson County Executive. Read on for all the news in Hoboken + Jersey City for the week ending January 14th, 2024.
Among the Headlines:
- 2024 Introduces New WomenRising Programs Against Domestic Violence
- Citi Bike Raising Prices Again
- Dave + Buster’s is Coming to Jersey City; Taking Over Sears Space at Newport Centre Mall
- Peri Peri in Jersey City to Close
- Thieves Steal $31K in Jewelry from Love Locked in Jersey City
- Jersey City Renews Efforts for 911 Mental Health Response Program
- Into the Void in Jersey City to Expand Furniture Section + Remove Coffee Shop
- A Historic Hoboken Home is Up for Demolition
- Craig Guy Takes on Role of Hudson County Executive
- FLY E-BIKE Shop is Coming to Hoboken
- Capoeira Restaurant is Open in Jersey City
- Hudson Health System: New Partnership for Improved Healthcare in Hudson County
- NJ Legislature Welcomes New Senators
- Eleven Members in Jersey City Face Charges in Racketeering + Drug Conspiracy
- NJCU + Jersey City POBA Sign Agreement to Support Officers in Earning Degrees
- $5M Grant for Bayonne’s Russell Golding Park Renovation
- Ndaba Mandela To Speak at HCCC’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day Event
- Jersey City Council Approves $175 Fine for Bike Lane Violations
- Hoboken Students at Speech And Theatre Competitions Secure Awards
- Weehawken Plans to Retain Public Employees During High Rents
- Antique at 112 Has New Hours
- There’s a New Brewery Coming to Hoboken
- Jersey City Hit-and-Run Leads to Charges Against Bayonne Man
- The Movie It Ends With Us is Filming in Jersey City
- Billy Crystal-Led TV Series Before Filming In Hoboken
- Four New Jersey Legislators Honored by Legislative Latino Caucus
- Mayor Fulop Launches Secure Bike Pod at Newport PATH Station
- Hoboken Launches Climate Action Department to Boost Resilience + Sustainability
- Hoboken High School Offers Free Community Swim Hours for Residents
- Jersey City Strengthens 911 Call Center with 20 New Hires
- Jersey City Arts Fund $1M in Grants to Boost Local Creativity + Economy
- Jersey City Man Faces Multiple Charges
2024 Introduces New WomenRising Programs Against Domestic Violence
WomenRising, the designated agency for domestic violence services in Hudson County, is expanding its efforts in 2024, according to NJ.com. Plans include a new countywide program aimed at addressing specific abusive behaviors rather than traditional anger management. The organization will hire an on-site advocate at Jersey City Municipal Court to aid abuse survivors. These programs are funded by grants received in 2023 and aim to counter rising rates of domestic violence exacerbated by the pandemic. The initiatives focus on abuser intervention and support for survivors navigating the legal process.
Citi Bike Raising Prices Again
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Citi Bike is increasing its prices this month to upgrade station infrastructure and introduce e-bikes to improve bike-sharing, according to NJ.com. The Annual Membership price will increase to $219.99 a year on January 29th. Other Citi Bike service prices already increased on January 4th. The only service that will not change is for the Reduced Fare Bike Share members who will continue to pay $5 per month. The full summary of its changes can be found on Citi Bike’s website.
Dave + Buster’s is Coming to Jersey City; Taking Over Sears Space at Newport Centre Mall
Photo Credit: Creative Commons
The last remaining Sears department store in New Jersey is closing at Newport Centre Mall in Jersey City. Signage is already up on the storefront that features a closing sale. A well-known arcade and restaurant, Dave and Buster’s, is arriving in its place. The arcade, known for its old-school video games, is in the plan to become the new tenant for Sears space. We covered the full article here.
Tribos Peri Peri in Jersey City to Close
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Tribos Peri Peri, a Portuguese restaurant in downtown Jersey City at 109 Christopher Columbus Drive, announced on its Instagram that it will close. The last day of the restaurant’s operations was on Saturday, January 6th, after serving the Jersey City community for the last five years, according to Patch.
$31K of Jewelry Stolen from Love Locked in Jersey City
Jewelry valued at $31,000 was stolen from a shop and gift store in Downtown Jersey City on January 11th, per NJ.com. One suspect distracted an employee while the other suspect stole the items from Love Locked in Jersey City near Grove Street and Bay Street around 2:40PM. The suspects have still not been identified.
Jersey City Renews Efforts for 911 Mental Health Response Program
Jersey City council members aim for a fourth attempt at establishing a 911 mental health response program, collaborating with officials to create a new request for proposal (RFP) by May 1st, per NJ.com. The former $4.2 million deal with Jersey City Medical Center was rejected, prompting the need for an expanded RFP specifying seven-day coverage and increased police collaboration. State legislators have approved a $12 million appropriation for a community crisis response team’s pilot program, potentially providing funding for Jersey City’s initiative.
Into the Void in Jersey City to Expand Furniture Section + Remove Coffee Shop
Into the Void, located at 117 Brunswick Street in Jersey City, is a unique business that consists of a café at the front of the shop and a vintage furniture and decor shop at the back. The brains behind the operation are co-owners Andy Schulz and Greg Yannalfo. Less than a year after celebrating its first year in business, Into the Void recently announced that it would be expanding its furniture section, and with that comes the removal of the coffee shop in the front of the store. Read on to learn more about the furniture section expansion at Into the Void as well as more from our chat with the owners back in spring 2023 here.
A Historic Hoboken Home is Up for Demolition
^ The exterior of 206 3rd Street in Hoboken. Photo Credit: Nastasi Architect’s Historic Presentation.
The Hoboken Historic Preservation Commission had its first meeting of the year on January 8th, including a vote concerning the future of a well-known Hoboken home. At the meeting, the Commission listened to a petition to demolish the wooden home located at 206 3rd Street, which was built in 1840. However, the Commission has postponed the decision to allow the demolition until next month, according to TapInto Hoboken. Perhaps more notable than the home’s age is its former resident: Jim Hans, the founder of the Hoboken Historical Museum. Read on to learn about Jim’s legacy here.
Craig Guy Takes on Role of Hudson County Executive
Craig Guy took office as Hudson County Executive after being sworn in by Governor Phil Murphy at County Prep High School in Jersey City on January 4th, per NJ.com. This event, attended by Hudson County leaders and congressmen, marked the Democrat’s transition to the role previously held by Tom DeGise. Craig expressed dedication to improving the quality of life in Hudson County, promising a resident-focused administration.
FLY E-BIKE Shop is Coming to Hoboken
A new bike shop specializing in electric bikes, FLY E-BIKE, has put signage up at 106 4th Street in Hoboken. FLY E-BIKE is in the former spot of The Evolution Store which is an NYC-based natural history shop that closed three months after opening. Read on to learn more about FLY E-Bike coming to Hoboken here.
Capoeira Restaurant is Open in Jersey City
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A restaurant serving Brazilian and Portuguese cuisine recently opened at 24 Mercer Street in Jersey City, adjacent to City Hall. Capoeira is BYOB and is open from Tuesday to Sunday. Some of its menu items include empanadas, rice and beans, meat or fish dishes, and soups, which can be found on its Instagram.
NJ Legislature Welcomes New Senators
Angela McKnight, a four-term assemblywoman, now represents NJ’s 31st District as a State Senator, succeeding Sandra Cunningham, according to the Hudson County View. Raj Mukherji, a five-term Assemblyman, assumes the role of state Senator for the restricted 32nd District. They were among 10 new State Senators sworn in. The swearing-in ceremony on January 9th, attended by local leaders, saw new Assembly members in districts LD-32 and LD-33, marking a shift in Trenton’s legislative makeup.
Eleven in Jersey City Face Federal Charges
Eleven individuals linked to the Marion Gardens Housing Complex in Jersey City are facing indictment for their involvement in a violent racketeering and drug trafficking conspiracy, announced by US Attorney Philip Sellinger, via a press release. The charges stem from their connection to three murders dating back to 2020, involving incidents such as luring victims through deceptive online messages and violent altercations during narcotics transactions. The investigation also uncovered the main narcotics supplier, resulting in arrests in March 2023. This enforcement is a part of the broader Jersey City Violent Crime Initiative, a collaborative effort among federal, state, county, and city agencies to combat violent crime in the area.
NJCU + Jersey City POBA Sign Agreement to Support Officers in Earning Degrees
New Jersey City University (NJCU) and Jersey City Police Officers Benevolent Association (POBA) recently signed an agreement to assist officers in earning four-year degrees, according to the Hudson County View. The collaboration offers streamlined applications, and flexible course scheduling, and provides support to officers pursuing education. The initiative aims to strengthen community ties, improve policing, and enhance relationships between officers and the community.
$5M Grant for Bayonne’s Russell Golding Park Renovation
US Representative Rob Menendez (D-8) announced a $5 million grant from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development for the renovation of Bayonne’s Russell Golding Park, according to the Hudson County View. The revamp will feature upgraded amenities like new playgrounds, basketball courts, exercise areas, a splash park, and more. The project is supported by an additional $750,000 from a Hudson County grant to enhance the park’s accessibility, recreation activities, and overall quality of life for Bayonne residents.
Ndaba Mandela’s To Speak at HCCC’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day Event
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Ndaba Mandela, grandson of Nelson Mandela and a human rights activist, is set to speak at Hudson County Community College’s 2024 Martin Luther King Jr. Day event on January 18th, according to NJ.com. Ndaba follows in the footsteps of his grandfather by advocating for human rights through organizations including Mandela Institute for Humanity and Africa Rising Foundation. The event is open to the community.
Jersey City Council Approves $175 Fine for Bike Lane Violations
The Jersey City Council approved a $175 fine for drivers parking in bike lanes following an emotional plea from a father whose son was killed in a bike lane in 2015, according to NJ.com. However, Councilman Richard Boggiano and Daniele Rivera call for increased enforcement against cyclists breaking traffic laws, proposing the reestablishment of mounted police and motorcycle units. Meanwhile, concerns over the city’s finances arise as Council members question the use of an $839,000 grant for paving Martin Luther King Drive, revealing ongoing challenges in managing municipal finances.
Hudson Health System: New Partnership for Improved Healthcare in Hudson County
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Hudson Regional Hospital and CarePoint Health System announced the creation of Hudson Health System, a new management company overseeing four acute care hospitals in Hudson County, per a press release. The network includes Hudson Regional Hospital, Bayonne Medical Center, Hoboken University Medical Center, and Christ Hospital. The move aims to provide high-quality affordable healthcare with an innovative model, combining nonprofit and for-profit hospitals.
Hoboken Students Secure Awards
There were 46 middle and high school students from Hoboken who excelled at the Speech and Theater Association of New Jersey’s Governor’s Awards held at Montclair State University on January 6th, per Hoboken School District. The Hoboken students competed with 750 participants from 34 schools. Each student secured 10 awards, placing in the top 10 out of 200 entries. Awards ranged from comedic monologues to dramatic scenes, showcasing the talent and dedication of the students from Hoboken.
Weehawken Plans to Leverage Housing to Retain Public Employees
Weehawken is aiming to purchase properties to provide affordable housing to local government workers who struggle with high rents, according to NJ.com. In response to the rise in rents, the township is looking to buy properties to lease them to municipal employees. The initiative includes plans for a bond for $4.7 million and negotiations for properties compromising 14 additional units while working on the logistics.
Antique at 112 Has New Hours
Antique at 112, located at 112 Willow Avenue in Hoboken, is a BYOB restaurant serving modern twists on burgers, sandwiches, and hot dogs with allergy-friendly modifications. Beginning on January 11th, its new hours are 9AM to 8PM due to popular demand from customers. Read on for details here.
There’s a New Brewery Coming to Hoboken
Photo Credit: MVMK
A vacant lot at 1415 Adams Street in uptown Hoboken doesn’t look like much now, but owner Bill Schmitt has big plans for the space. He and his wife Maren are co-owners of Schmitty’s Bar and Otok Bakery, and now have their sights set on building a three-story brewery. The facility will have beer brewing on-site in addition to multi-purpose space for visitors. Read on for more about the brewery coming to Hoboken here.
Jersey City Hit-and-Run Leads to Charges Against Bayonne Man
Rey Rosario, a 66-year-old man from Bayonne, has been charged in connection with a February 10th, 2023 hit-and-run incident in Jersey City that caused serious injuries to a 39-year-old woman, per a press release. Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez charged Rey for leaving the scene of the collision resulting in the woman’s serious bodily injuries. Rey has been arrested on Monmouth Street in Jersey City and awaits his first court appearance following the incident near Communipaw Avenue and John F. Kennedy Boulevard.
Hudson County Veteran Opens Restaurant in Journal Square
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Jersey City veteran James Steuart, who was named Hudson County Veteran of the Year in 2023, has opened Chick’n Cone restaurant at 586 Newark Avenue in Journal Square, per NJ.com. The combat medic and 14-year Army National Guard veteran aims to connect the community through his business, providing a menu featuring fried chicken and waffle-inspired dishes. Chick’nCone is a Pennsylvania-based fast-food chain with locations across Lehigh Valley, New York City, and Kentucky, specializing in a portable version of fried chicken and waffles.
The Movie It Ends With Us is Filming in Jersey City
Photo Credit: @nikita_narawade
In May 2023, not a minute went by in Hoboken where the names Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni weren’t mentioned. Production for the Colleen Hoover novel-turned-film, It Ends with Us, is filming right here in Jersey City. As of January 5th, Blake, Justin, and Blake’s husband Ryan Reynolds were all spotted in Newport for filming. As of January 9th, the team came back to Hudson County to film more scenes. Read on for what we know in our full article here.
Four New Jersey Legislators Honored by Legislative Latino Caucus
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The Legislative Latino Caucus honored outgoing New Jersey legislators Pedro Mejia, Angelica Jimenez, Gabriela Mosquera, and Annette Chaparro for their significant contributions, according to the Hudson County View. The members were recognized with a New Jersey Resolution and presented with acrylic plaques to commemorate their service in the Legislature. The awards were presented by members of the Legislative Latino Caucus.
Billy Crystal-Led TV Series Before Filming In Hoboken
The Paramount TV series Before featuring Billy Crystal, Judith Light, and Rosie Perez, is currently filming in Hoboken until Thursday, January 18th. The Apple TV+ limited series, delayed due to a writer’s strike last June, is a 10-episode psychological thriller about Eli (Billy Crystal), a child psychiatrist, investigating a troubled boy with a mysterious connection to the past. The production has been taking place on the 900 block of Hudson Street. Read on for what we know about Before Filming in the Mile Square in our full article here.
Hoboken Launches Climate Action Department to Boost Resilience + Sustainability
^ Director Jennifer Gonzalez + Mayor Ravi S. Bhalla at COP28 in Dubai in 2023. Photo credit: City of Hoboken
Hoboken Mayor Ravi S. Bhalla creates the Department of Climate Action + Innovation to tackle climate changes and enhance sustainability efforts, per a press release. The new department, approved by the City Council, aims to address the city’s vulnerability to climate change impacts, particularly flooding. Led by Chief Sustainability Officer Jennifer Gonzales, the department will focus on innovative and cost-saving measures to make Hoboken a climate-ready community, overseeing key divisions such as Sustainability and Resiliency, Capital Planning, and Engineering. The Department of Environmental Services will remain, and Diana Aviles will lead the Department of Parks, Recreation, and Public Works.
Hoboken High School Offers Free Community Swim Hours for Residents
The Hoboken Public School District is providing free community swim hours for Hoboken residents at Hoboken High School, per an Instagram post. Family swim sessions are from 2PM to 4PM, and adult lap swim sessions are from 4PM to 5PM on Saturdays from January 13th through March 23rd. Safety measures include ID requirement, sign-in, and Red Cross Certified Lifeguards on duty. Swimmers must bring personal towels, swim shoes, and wear proper swim attire.
Jersey City Strengthens 911 Call Center with 20 New Hires
Jersey City is addressing issues at the 911 emergency call center by hiring 20 people to improve staffing levels and employee morale, per, NJ.com. The center, previously criticized for unanswered calls, is undergoing reconstruction and relocating to the public safety headquarters for improved operations. Union President John Kilroy acknowledges the long-standing problem of short staffing and plans to discuss various issues, including payroll problems, with Police Director Tawana Moody.
Jersey City Arts Fund $1M in Grants to Boost Local Creativity + Economy
Jersey City’s Art and Culture program is set to allocate over $1 million in grants during its third round of distributions supporting arts education, programming, general operations, and individual Artist Fellowships, according to the Hudson County View. The fund was established in 2021 and aims to strengthen the local arts community, generating $46 million in economic activity and supporting jobs in 2022. Mayor Fulop highlights the fund’s significance, emphasizing its positive impact on the community, while previous rounds have already provided assistance to 200 local artists and organizations.
Jersey City Man Faces Multiple Charges
Ramy Mercado of Jersey City pleaded guilty to charges of possessing child pornography and committing naturalization fraud between June and October 2022, according to the Hudson County View. Ramy transmitted over 20 video files depicting the sexual abuse of minors, including infants, via his cell phone during this period. He also fraudulently obtained US Citizenship by falsely claiming that he did not commit any crimes before his naturalization in June 2023. Ramy faces a minimum of 30 years in prison and a $500,000 fine, with sentencing scheduled for May 22nd, 2024.
Mayor Fulop Launches Secure Bike Pod at Newport PATH Station
Jersey City Mayor Fulop introduced a free 24/7 bike storage pod at Newark PATH Station in collaboration with Oonee and Newport, accommodating 24 micro-mobility devices, according to the HudsonCountyView. Mayor Fulop highlighted the initiative’s role in promoting greener communing options and reducing vehicular traffic. The City plans to expand its secure bike parking system with 25 additional stations throughout Jersey City, emphasizing the importance of infrastructure in fostering a bicycle and micro-mobility ecosystem.
