A building at the former John A. Roebling's Sons Co. in Trenton is being converted into 138 lofts
TRENTON -- Along Route 129, the much-anticipated loft project at the former Roebling complex is taking shape.
Construction crews are working to transform what was once a shop that spun wire-rope for aircraft into 138 modern lofts.
The reincarnated 1917 structure will be known as Roebling Lofts, the first phase of a much larger development called Roebling Center.
"It's one thing to do it on paper and imagine it, but then to be in the unit and see the views and get a sense of the apartments, it's really nice," says John Hatch, one-third of the team HHG Development Associates.
Work began in February and reached its 100-day milestone this week.
Crews have been busy framing out the apartments, repairing and restoring the masonry and brickwork and installing a new roof. Work is also underway on the mechanical systems, including plumbing, electrical, heating and cooling.
"That site has been sitting empty for a long time, so it's just really exciting to see something happening with it -- just the sense of activity and energy is great," Hatch said.
The lofts are on track to be completed in April 2017. Though HHG has not begun to market them, interest has been high.
Hatch said the hope is that they will draw both city residents and newcomers alike.
The second and third phases will eventually add another 52 lofts, 200,000-plus-square-feet of creative office space, retail and restaurant space, a public square and a 949-space parking garage.
"I think even just this first phase is going to transform it," Hatch said. "But when all of it is done, it's going to be a destination. It's going to bring a lot of new people into Trenton and a lot of employees."
On Tuesday, the project's construction manager, W.S. Cumby, is hosting a job fair for Trenton residents. It will run from 1 to 4 p.m. at the site, 71 Clark Street.
Cristina Rojas may be reached at crojas@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @CristinaRojasTT. Find NJ.com on Facebook.