Newark Planning Board Approves Rental Development in Forest Hill

40-unit apartment building with affordable housing and rooftop amenities coming to vacant lot near Branch Brook Park

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The Newark Central Planning Board has approved a site plan to develop a new four-story, 40-unit apartment building at 249-257 Mount Prospect Avenue in the Forest Hill neighborhood. The project by Ridgeview Properties will include 8 affordable housing units, a parking garage, and rooftop amenities like an exercise room, lounge, and deck.

Why it matters

This development will bring new residential units, including affordable housing, to a long-vacant lot near Branch Brook Park in Newark's North Ward. It represents continued investment and redevelopment in the Forest Hill neighborhood, which has seen a mix of new construction and renovations in recent years.

The details

The approved plan calls for a four-story building with 40 apartments - 8 one-bedroom and 32 two-bedroom units. 8 of the apartments will be designated as affordable housing for residents earning 60-80% of the area median income. The building will have a basement parking garage with 39 spaces, including 2 ADA-compliant and 8 EV charging spots. Residential amenities on the rooftop will include an exercise room, lounge, storage, and a deck with a pergola.

  • The Newark Central Planning Board approved the site plan on February 9, 2026.
  • Ridgeview Properties has controlled the two parcels at 249-257 Mount Prospect since 2021, when it paid around $1 million to acquire the properties.

The players

Ridgeview Properties

The real estate development firm that is behind the 40-unit apartment project at 249-257 Mount Prospect Avenue in Newark's Forest Hill neighborhood.

Newark Central Planning Board

The municipal planning board that voted to approve the site plan for the new apartment building in the Forest Hill area of Newark.

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What’s next

Ridgeview Properties will now need to obtain any necessary construction permits and financing to begin work on the 40-unit apartment building. The inclusion of affordable housing units may also allow the developer to seek tax incentives from the Newark City Council.

The takeaway

This new residential development in Newark's Forest Hill neighborhood represents continued investment and revitalization in the area, bringing new housing options including affordable units, while also activating a long-vacant lot near the city's Branch Brook Park.