Kushner Cos., Rouse Properties announce latest Monmouth Mall plan

After negotiations for the improvement initiative of the Monmouth Mall stalled almost one year ago, Kushner Cos. and Rouse Properties have announced site plans for The Heights at Monmouth, a mixed-use shopping center, are in the works, with construction scheduled to start in 2018.After negotiations for the improvement initiative of the Monmouth Mall stalled almost one year ago, Kushner Cos. and Rouse Properties have announced site plans for The Heights at Monmouth, a mixed-use shopping center, are in the works, with construction scheduled to start in 2018.

“Kushner has a proven track record of successfully identifying and unlocking the inherent value at its assets through strategic renovations and property updates,” Rouse Properties CEO Brian Harper said. “Throughout this project, we will leverage each other’s deep redevelopment and transformational expertise to deliver an innovative, community-focused destination center that truly revolutionizes the way people live, eat, shop and unwind in Monmouth County and beyond. We look forward to becoming an integral part of the Eatontown community and working together with the city and its people moving forward.”

Kushner and Rouse said they were inspired by projects like Santana Row in California, the Domain in Austin Texas and Pier Village in Long Branch.

“The transformational plan for the center includes space to house a vibrant mix of shopping, dining, entertainment, leisure and daily-use providers, the addition of residential space, and the construction of common public areas that will offer an inviting and seamless community environment,” The companies said in a news release.

In addition to revitalizing the mall, the companies mentioned plans to create an indoor culinary marketplace, Culinary Heights, which will feature a variety of upscale restaurants, bars and dining options.

Rouse Properties has recently completed repositioning projects in California, Oregon, Alabama and Missouri.

“This long-term investment in Eatontown will transform Monmouth Mall into a 24/7 attraction unlike any other in the state,” Laurent Morali, president of Kushner Cos. said. “We’re thrilled to partner with industry leader Rouse to deliver a cutting-edge project that will serve Eatontown, Monmouth County and New Jersey for years to come.”