Englewood Cliffs is set for its first new multifamily development in more than four decades, with demolition underway on a project from Garden Communities.

The Short Hills-based company announced the start to work Nov. 21. Located on a 20-acre parcel at 800 Sylvan Ave. in the Bergen County municipality, the property previously housed office and R&D operations for Unilever.

According to Garden Communities Principal Brett Tanzman, the site is prime for multifamily reuse.

The mid-rise community will offer a mix of studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments in addition to three-bedroom townhomes. Garden Communities said the “residences will be thoughtfully designed and appointed, with high-end finishes and fixtures” complemented by indoor and outdoor recreational spaces and amenities.

The company said the development responds to the region’s sustained need for additional housing.

“Bergen County is New Jersey’s most heavily populated county – a region known for its high quality of life, well-educated labor pool and robust health care systems,” Tanzman said in a statement. “Within that context, 800 Sylvan Ave. sits directly across from New York City – less than 5 miles from the George Washington Bridge. It is truly a special property and one we look forward to bringing to its best and highest use.”