The iconic Greater Bergen County YMCA at 360 Main Street in Hackensack is being demolished after 90 years of community service. Shuttered in 2022, the building has been acquired by Canoe Brook Development in partnership with Woodmont Properties.
Demolition began on February 13, 2026, officially marking the end of an era for the local landmark. The site will soon be home to a seven-story, 254-unit luxury residential complex with over 400 parking spaces and a 6,000-square-foot public plaza at its base.
A New Chapter for Main Street
The new building is part of Hackensack’s ongoing push for downtown revitalization and development. Once fully leased, the project is expected to generate more than $1 million in annual tax revenue, a sharp increase from the property’s previous tax-exempt status.
City officials say the project will also create roughly 1,000 construction jobs and add six permanent, full-time positions once complete. Amenities will include a resort-style pool deck, full club and lounge spaces, co-working units, and a retail component—all designed to foster a modern, urban living space for residents.
Mayor John Labrosse acknowledged the building’s history but emphasized the city’s excitement for what comes next. “While the former YMCA building holds sentimental value for many in our community, we are thrilled to see this site poised for a transformative new chapter,” Labrosse said. “These redevelopment projects not only enhance our cityscape but also contribute significantly to our economic vitality, and the YMCA will continue to remain active in the Hackensack community by serving residents at its New Milford location for years to come.”
Deputy Mayor Kathy Canestrino added that the project aligns with the city’s long-term strategic goals, stabilizing finances while encouraging new local businesses and growth.
Redevelopment Plan and Community Impact
The redevelopment plan was approved by the Planning Board in 2024 and includes Blocks 402, Lots 12, 16.01, and 16.02. The project will cost roughly $103 million to build, featuring a four-story wood-frame residential structure over a three-level concrete parking garage.
The plan also emphasizes inclusivity. Occupancy and employment will be non-discriminatory, prohibiting restrictions based on age, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, or other protected characteristics.
The redevelopment agreement spans 30 years, offering tax exemptions to encourage investment and ensure the project’s long-term viability. City officials and the developer have also established procedures to allow for future amendments or changes to ensure the project adapts alongside community needs.
Honoring the YMCA’s Legacy
For decades, the Hackensack YMCA was a community hub. Its closure left a gap in the local fabric, but the YMCA continues to serve residents at its New Milford location—just a few miles north. While memories of the original building remain, the new development aims to build upon Hackensack’s rapid growth by providing a space for residents to live, gather, and interact in the city’s downtown.
Downtown Hackensack’s Future
This project is part of a broader vision for Hackensack, complementing other residential developments in the area, including a 107-unit project at 359 Main Street. City officials see these efforts as vital to revitalizing the downtown corridor, generating new tax revenue, and enhancing economic activity, while encouraging movement to the Bergen County city.
With demolition underway, Hackensack is preparing to welcome a new era. With its modern design, public amenities, and downtown location, the former YMCA site is set to become a cornerstone of the city’s growth and a symbol of its current transformation.
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