Demolition is under way on a series of buildings across the Rahway River from downtown where a five-story apartment complex is planned.

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The $68-million Vermella Rahway would replace 10 properties, a mix of residential and commercial, including an auto mechanic and the former Rahway Electric building, covering about 3 acres on a block bounded by Essex Street, Bridge Street, Monroe Street, and Clarkson Place.

Carlstadt-based Russo Development presented a new concept plan for the former Bridgeview plan to the Redevelopment Agency in July 2022. A first phase, which received Planning Board approval last year, would include about 164 of the 216 units, about two-thirds. A second phase would include the remaining 72 units if developers are able to relocate a PSE&G substation on the remainder of the block. The first phase received Planning Board approval last year.

The 213 units would be a mix of one-bedrooms (81), one-bedrooms with a den (32), two-bedrooms (81), and studios (19). The development would have parking for 287 cars, including 229 spaces in a ground-floor garage topped by four floors of residential. An additional 58 on-street parking spaces would be available along one side of Essex Street. The garage would have 35 electric vehicle spaces, complying with state requirements of 15% Level 2 charging spaces. A third (12) would be operational when the building opens, and a second and final third within six years of receiving a certificate of occupancy.

City Council granted a 30-year Payment In Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) in September 2022.that’s projected to provide $26.6 million in revenue.

Vermella Rahway had been named Bridgeview in previous concepts presented to the agency over the past five years by another developer. Those concepts ranged from 174 to 300 residential units.

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