New Ironbound Apartment Building Innovates with Eco-Friendly Features;  

Pursues Fitwel® Certification 

Newark, NJ – Fifty-Five Union, the new rental community in Newark’s historic Ironbound district, is not only delivering exceptional living spaces and thoughtful amenities to the city, but also incorporates a comprehensive sustainability and wellness plan that contributes to a healthier and more eco-friendly environment, propelling Newark towards a greener future.   

Spearheaded by Fifty-Five Union’s developer, Newark-based J&L Companies, the plan amplifies the City of Newark’s Sustainability Action Plan by embracing a holistic approach that fosters both environmental well-being and resident wellness within the built environment.  

Noteworthy green elements integrated into Fifty-Five Union’s design include a cutting-edge greywater recycling system that captures stormwater on the roof, filters it using UV radiation to eliminate bacteria, and repurposes it for irrigation throughout the property. By doing so, it significantly reduces water consumption and minimizes the impact of rainwater on the streets.   

Additional environmentally-friendly features include a living green wall in the lobby, a sustainable green roof, energy-efficient LED lighting throughout the property, Energy Star®-rated appliances in each residence, EV charging stations, energy recovery ventilation, hybrid heat pumps, and a regenerative power elevator system.   

Access to open space within an urban setting was also prioritized in the design process for Fifty-Five Union, with more than 20,000 square feet of outdoor escapes for fresh air, recreation, and relaxation, including a landscaped rooftop garden and entertainment area with uninterrupted views of New York City and downtown Newark. A courtyard at the center of the property provides additional open-air opportunities alongside an entertainment area with grill stations, fire pits, and lounge seating, while an outdoor public plaza will be activated throughout the year to promote community connection. As part of the extensive amenity offering, the property features a state-of-the-art fitness center with an outdoor exercise area that affords residents ample opportunities to improve their overall health and well-being.  

J&L Companies is actively pursuing Fitwel® certification for Fifty-Five Union, a prestigious recognition originally created by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the General Services Administration (GSA). The third-party certification is now granted by The Center for Active Design (CfAD) and acknowledges buildings that prioritize the health and wellness of occupants, with focuses on ample natural light, access to outdoor spaces, fitness facilities, enhanced indoor air quality, thermal and acoustic comfort, and walkability. 

“We designed this property to support the physical, mental and social well-being of our residents, aiming to enrich their lives and enhance their overall experience,” said Gabriel Lopez, J&L Companies Vice President. “55 Union introduces a future-ready, green-infused urban residential environment, setting a higher standard for positively influencing health and wellness through thoughtful and sustainable design in Newark.”  

J&L Companies assembled a team of renowned professionals to integrate the advanced green technologies into 55 Union’s design, including MEP Engineer VanPraet/Weisgerber Turnkey Engineering; Minno & Wasko Architects and Planners; Landscape Designer Arterial; Kelly Mac of Interiorscapes;  A&L Landscaping; and Greenspot.  Notable subcontractors involved with the MEP installations include Haddad Plumbing; Air Group, Schindler Elevator Corporation and MDC Electrical. 

Leasing is underway at Fifty-Five Union, which features 403 brand new studio, one- and two-bedroom residences in an ultra-convenient location just steps from Newark Penn Station, downtown Newark’s entertainment landmarks, and The Ironbound’s main shopping, dining, and cultural artery: Ferry Street. The property also includes 3,078 square-feet of ground-floor retail space. 

The community’s residences are spacious and well-appointed, offering open layouts and upscale finishes. They include chef-inspired kitchens with stainless steel appliances and quartz countertops, floor-to-ceiling windows that maximize natural light, central air, in-home washer/dryer, and solar and blackout shades. Fifty-Five Union’s seamless integration of technology allows residents to enjoy keyless entry and apartments that are pre-wired with cost-effective ($50 per month) and fast internet service (1 gigabit) using Newark fiber powered by Gigxero and Invest Newark. 

In addition to its vast offering of outdoor spaces, Fifty-Five Union features thoughtful indoor amenities and social spaces including a boutique lobby with 24-hour concierge, package reception and coffee bar; club room, private dining room and catering kitchen, and a business lounge with private and co-working spaces, conference rooms and Wi-Fi. Residents will also appreciate the pet-friendly building’s indoor parking garage, private, bicycle and cold storage; and electronic package lockers.  

Monthly rents currently start at $1,900 for studios and $2,215 for select one-bedroom homes based on one month free on a 13-month lease.  Immediate occupancy is available.  

For more information on Fifty-Five Union, or to arrange a visit to tour the property’s furnished model homes and amenity spaces, visit www.55UnionNewark.com or call 973-803-1256.