Waterfront Reconstruction Project Begins in Hoboken

The City of Hoboken began construction Monday on the first phase of its Waterfront Reconstruction Project, aimed at stabilizing the deteriorating seawall beneath Sinatra Drive and adjacent waterfront walkways.

The project follows a June 2024 sinkhole discovery near Sybil’s Cave, which led to a structural investigation by Colliers Engineering & Design. The investigation identified a void beneath the 1950s-era seawall measuring 11 feet long, 20 inches high, and 48 inches deep, caused by erosion of historic fill.

Initial work includes removal of benches and surface features. Beginning April 10, contractor Simpson & Brown will start demolishing infrastructure near the skate park to access the seawall. Reinforcement will include installing a new pipe pile and steel sheet pile wall.

Construction will take place weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The City plans to seek Council approval for extended hours and Saturday work. Equipment will be transported via the Hudson River to limit street congestion.

Traffic changes start April 10. Sinatra Drive will close in both directions from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. to establish a new traffic pattern. After that, the eastern lane from Fifth Street to Sinatra Drive North will remain closed. Southbound traffic will be detoured to Hudson Street, and trucks redirected to Washington Street. Northbound traffic and emergency vehicle access will be maintained in the western lane.

Pedestrian access will be restricted near the construction zone, between the gazebo and the southern end of the former Union Dry Dock site. Pedestrians will be directed to Hudson Street due to safety risks, including falling debris from the adjacent cliff.

Hoboken police officers will monitor traffic and pedestrian flow daily between 8 a.m. and midnight. Detour signs will be posted.

Starting April 13, the City will relaunch the Sinatra Summer Streets initiative, closing parts of Sinatra Drive to vehicles on Sundays from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The first phase is expected to be completed by fall 2025. Future phases will address the waterfront near the former Monarch site, the boat launch at southern Sinatra Park, and the walkway near Pier C Park.

The reconstruction supports future development including the Sinatra Drive Redesign Project and Phase I of Maritime Park. Plans include improved bike and pedestrian infrastructure, tree planting, a living shoreline, and a new skatepark at the former Union Dry Dock site.