Beacon Ready for Next Phase

GlobeSt.com reports that plans for the next building phase at the Beacon are ready. The conversion of the Jersey City Medical Center from depression era hospital into luxury residences is a long term process.

The 22 Story Murdoch Hall will become the Paramount with 208 residential condos. The art deco features will be preserved, including the restoration of a theater from the era. With the first phase nearly sold out, the new construction phase will begin next year with occupancies beginning in 2010.

Already The Beacon has been seen as a boon for the McGinley Square area, with new construction and renovation sprouting up on properties adjacent to the old medical center. The Jersey City Police Department also has a motorcycle division in the complex.

The medical center was built during the depression, a gift from political machine boss Mayor Hague to the people of Jersey City. Hague's delivery of the city to President Roosevelt probably helped with financing too. The ten building complex will eventually house more than 1,200 apartments when the total conversion is complete. So far, three buildings have been converted.