Downtown Hackensack has been named a "Great Downtown" by the American Planners Association (APA), marking one of only two New Jersey downtowns to receive this prestigious recognition. This award highlights the exciting developments for the special improvement district in 2024, including the record-breaking Hackensacktoberfest, the launch of the Hackensack Success Hub to support local businesses, and the addition of new public art through the Art on Main initiative. With continued growth, community engagement, and creative efforts, MSBA continue driving the ongoing revitalization of Hackensack's downtown that started 12 years ago, positioning it as a thriving, vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike.
HACKENSACK, N.J., Nov. 8, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Downtown Hackensack is getting noticed in a big way! The Main Street Business Alliance (MSBA) is thrilled to announce that Downtown Hackensack has been named "Great Downtown" by the American Planners Association (APA) in their prestigious annual awards. As one of only two New Jersey downtowns to receive this coveted honor, this award celebrates the thriving heart of Hackensack and all the exciting developments that have taken place in 2024 as part of the comprehensive redevelopment plan of the downtown that started more than 12 years ago.
"This recognition as a 'Great Downtown' underscores the incredible progress we've made to reinvigorate Hackensack's Main Street and foster a sense of community pride," said John Peters, Executive Director of MSBA. "We are deeply grateful to everyone who has supported this journey, especially the Mayor and City Council, our local businesses and Hackensack's wonderful residents. Together, we're building something truly special, and we're just getting started."
"Downtown Hackensack has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, emerging as a lively destination and an ideal place to live, work, and play. This recognition by the New Jersey American Planning Association celebrates the collective efforts invested in enhancing our downtown's beauty, redevelopment, and economic and community vitality," said Edward Decker, Chairman of Main Street Business Alliance, which manages the Special Improvement District of Downtown Hackensack.
The American Planners Association award caps off an extraordinary year for MSBA, which has rolled out a series of innovative events, strategic initiatives, and artistic enhancements to Downtown Hackensack, capturing the community's spirit and energy. Here's a look at some of MSBA's most celebrated achievements and new ventures from 2024:
-- Hackensacktoberfest 2024: A record-breaking 4,500 attendees joined together in Atlantic Street Park on October 5th for the fifth annual Hackensacktoberfest, making it the biggest celebration yet! The festival's announcement videos garnered over 200,000 views, building excitement for a day of local brews, artisanal eats, and live music by the amazing CAT 5 band and DJs. With perfect weather, an upbeat crowd, and a buzzing beer garden, Hackensacktoberfest cemented its reputation as a can't-miss Bergen County event.
-- "Hackensack Old and New" Mural: MSBA's Art on Main initiative welcomed a stunning new mural at the corner of Main Street and Banta Place painted by local artist Lynn Ochiogrosso. Aptly titled "Hackensack Old and New," this mural symbolizes the blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy that defines Hackensack today, giving locals and visitors a visual celebration of the city's unique character.
-- Seward Johnson Sculptures on Display: Following the success of last year's "Grabbing Some Peace" installation, MSBA's Art on Main initiative also brought two more sculptures by renowned artist Seward Johnson—"Relish Too?" and "Who's in Charge?"—to Atlantic Street. These lifelike bronzes have delighted passersby and added a touch of whimsical artistry to the heart of Hackensack and will be on display through November 2024.
-- Hackensack Success Hub: MSBA partnered with the New Jersey Small Business Development Center (NJSBDC) and Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU) to launch the Hackensack Success Hub—a transformative resource for area small businesses. This free service offers one-on-one consulting on vital topics like marketing, finance, and social media. Related events like the Hispanic Small Business Expo and the NJ Legal Summit will continue to provide invaluable support and networking opportunities for local entrepreneurs as part of this partnership.
-- Games on Main: This lively monthly board game night, hosted at rotating local spots, has become a beloved new tradition. Games on Main brings neighbors together for an evening of fun, snacks, and prizes, while showcasing Hackensack's unique eateries and cafes. Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to check MSBA's website and social media for the latest dates and venues!
-- Small Business Meetups: Supporting local business is central to MSBA's mission. These monthly meetups give Hackensack's small business owners a platform to network, share ideas, and gain insights on thriving in today's competitive market.
"Hackensack's premier location within Bergen County, coupled with state-of-the-art downtown zoning, has enabled the city to become a statewide leader in the success of the residential-over-retail model. This could only have been accomplished with a resourceful City Council working hand in hand with an engaged business community," said Jerome Lombardo, former Chairman of Hackensack's Downtown Alliance.
With the Great Downtown award and a full slate of community-centered initiatives, MSBA has positioned Downtown Hackensack as a vibrant hub of culture, commerce, and connection. MSBA is already hard at work planning even more exciting programs for 2025, promising to build on this year's momentum and continue shaping Hackensack into a premier destination.
About MSBA:
The Main Street Business Alliance (MSBA) is a public/private partnership formed between the business community on Main Street and the city of Hackensack. The MSBA's mission is to address the issues facing the business community on Main Street, with the goal of improving the local economy and the overall business climate. For more information, visit downtownhackensack.org.
Media Contact
Marlene Oliver, Downtown Hackensack - MSBA, 305-491-0512, [email protected], www.downtownhackensack.org
SOURCE Downtown Hackensack
Share this article