5 Easy-to-Embrace Money Trends for 2025
March is coming to a close and the forecast predicts April will bring showers this week. It has been another week of news in Hudson County, and we’ve got all the headlines to get you caught up, as we do every week — from all around the internet. Among the local news: Northern lights may be visible from Hoboken + Jersey City this April; Forum Coffee opens at former Pour Amor space in Downtown Hoboken; and five local moms launch kids’ spa + birthday party space in Hoboken. Keep reading for all the news in Hoboken + Jersey City for the week ending on March 30th, 2025.
Have a news story or press release? Email it to [email protected].
Among the Headlines (read on for the full stories + more):
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- Northern Lights May Be Visible from Hoboken + Jersey City This April
- Team Behind O’Bagel to Open New Cafe in Hoboken
- Forum Coffee Opens at Former Pour Amor Space in Downtown Hoboken
- Rapper Ice-T Soft Opens New Cannabis Dispensary in Jersey City
- 5 Local Moms Launch Kids’ Spa + Birthday Party Space in Hoboken
- First-Ever Foodie Fest for Autism Awareness Happening in Hoboken on 4/5
- Applications for Hudson County PATH Performs Program Now Open
- Nailed It to Open Second Specialty Location in Hoboken
- After 32 Years in NJ + NY, the MetroCard is Retiring
- Glamming The Warrior to Host Screen for Life Event in Jersey City
Northern Lights May Be Visible from Hoboken + Jersey City This April
On the night of October 10th, 2024, Hoboken and Jersey City locals flocked outside to see a colorful array of lights in the sky, and we’re not talking about the Empire State Building. This vibrant celestial phenomenon, known as the Northern Lights, is most commonly associated with Scandinavian countries like Iceland, Norway, and Finland. Still, on April 5th, April 8th, and April 9th, the lights may once again be visible to Hudson County locals. Click here for more.
Team Behind O’Bagel to Open New Cafe in Hoboken
In fall 2024, The Hoboken Girl reported on a new cafe coming to 746 Park Avenue. Now we know what will be in the space. Mile Square Cafe is a new project from the team behind local favorite O’Bagel. Click here for more.
Forum Coffee Opens at Former Pour Amor Space in Downtown Hoboken
Pour Amour, which originally took over the location of Empanadas Cafe in 2021, closed its 123 Washington Street location in mid-February, making room for local franchise Forum Coffee to take its place. On Monday, March 24th, Forum Coffee officially opened the doors to its new Hoboken location, now serving coffees, teas, and treats from the Washington Street storefront. Click here for more.
Permits Spotted for a New Taco Spot on Newark Street in Hoboken
Another new eatery is underway in the Mile Square. A reader spotted construction permits at 57 Newark Street in Hoboken last night, prompting excitement of a new taco restaurant coming soon. While details are scarce, we caught a glimpse at some clues of what to expect. Click here for more.
Hoboken + Jersey City Jersey Avenue Closure Postponed to 4/7
Photo Credit: City of Hoboken
Southwest Hoboken will soon have a sliding floodgate to mitigate the impacts during storm surge events. As a part of the next phase of the Rebuild by Design Project, Jersey Avenue between Harrison Street in Hoboken and 18th Street in Jersey City will be closed 24 hours a day for approximately one month to install the foundation of the Resist structure’s sliding gate across Jersey Avenue. The work was slated to begin on or around March 31st, 2025, but the City of Hoboken shared with The Hoboken Girl on Friday, March 28th that the closure is being postponed until on or about Monday, April 7th. Click here for more.
Susan Tee Fitness Opens at New Hoboken Location
Susan Tee Fitness has relocated to 2 Marine View Plaza in Hoboken. This fitness studio specializes in boxing, kickboxing, focus mitt training, heavy bag work, and cross training yoga. The new space is now open for classes and personal training.
Mile Square Mommies to Host Chalk the Block Party on 4/2
Mile Square Mommies, a beloved organization that has become a staple in the Hoboken community, is celebrating its second anniversary with a Chalk The Block party on April 4th from 3:30PM-5:30PM at The Field House located at the Hoboken Little League Field, 25 5th Street. The event will feature arts and crafts, health information, backdrop photo ops, and free donuts from Do Good Donuts. Non-perishable items and canned goods will be collected for the Hoboken Shelter.
Rapper Ice-T Soft Opens New Cannabis Dispensary in Jersey City
Rapper and actor Ice-T has teamed up with The Medicine Woman co-owner, Charis Burrett, to open up a cannabis dispensary in Jersey City. On July 25th, 2022, the duo and their marijuana dispensary — along with three other Class 5 retail applications — were approved by the Jersey City cannabis control board. Over a year later, Ice-T + Charis were officially approved by the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission The Medicine Woman is now in its soft opening stages at 660-684 Tonnelle Avenue as of March 27th, 2025. Click here for more.
Hoboken Clothing Boutique a X d Soft Opens New Washington Street Location
In fashion-related news, a popular Hoboken-based boutique, a X d, recently announced its move to a new location at 730 Washington Street in the former Dune + Salt space. The new site just soft opened down the street from the company’s sister store — Alba Boutique — on Friday, March 28th. Click here for more.
Meximodo Opening 2nd New Jersey Location in Downtown Jersey City
A popular New Jersey-based Mexican restaurant has announced its arrival in Jersey City. Planting roots at 25 Christopher Columbus Drive, Meximodo Cocina Mexicana + Tequila Bar, a trendy Mexican eatery and bar, will open in the downtown area in the spring. The restaurant has another location in Metuchen. Click here for more.
5 Local Moms Launch Kids’ Spa + Birthday Party Space in Hoboken
Hoboken’s Monroe Center has just welcomed a recent addition to its building of creatives and entrepreneurs. The Little Glow Society, founded by five local moms, is a kids’ and tweens’ birthday party venue with a focus on self-care and wellness. The space is opening soon at 720 Monroe Street, Suite E420, and is ready to welcome little ones (and big ones) and all their pampering needs. Click here for more.
First-Ever Foodie Fest for Autism Awareness Happening in Hoboken on 4/5
On April 5th, a new foodie event will make its debut in Hoboken, and this one is all about raising awareness while enjoying all of the foodie fun our Mile Square city has to offer. Enter the first-ever Hoboken Foodie Fest — a celebration of community, creativity, and spreading Autism awareness + acceptance, complete with good eats, live music, and a book drive. Click here for more.
Pier C in Hoboken Closed Due to Police Activity After Body Found
Hoboken’s Pier C was closed on Sunday, March 23rd for police activity. Parts of nearby Sinatra Park were also closed. According to the Hoboken Police X account, the closure began around 3PM. Shortly before 4PM, the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office shared that a deceased male had been found in the water. The Hoboken Girl has reached out to local law enforcement for more information and will update this piece when we hear back. Click here for more.
Body Found in Hudson River Near Pier in Jersey City
Police pulled a person out of the Hudson River in Jersey City on March 23rd and performed CPR, but the person did not survive, per city spokesperson Kim Wallace-Scalcione. Shortly after 9PM on Sunday, first responders pulled the person out of the water near a pier. Emergency workers began CPR, but the person appeared to be “dead on arrival.” Jersey City’s police and fire departments were at the scene, as well as the New York Police Department and Port Authority. The Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office said that the Jersey City police are the lead investigating agency.
Barcade Jersey City to Close Permanently on 4/21
Barcade — a Jersey City spot that combines games and booze, the best of both childhood and adult worlds, is closing on April 21st. After a 14-year run in Chilltown, Barcade announced back in February that its Jersey City location will be closing permanently on June 15th, 2025. Now, a more recent post from this week revealed that Barcade will be closing earlier than originally expected. Click here for more.
Hoboken Restaurant Tony Boloney to be Featured on ABC’s Shark Tank
Hoboken restaurant Tony Boloney announced on Facebook that it will be featured on ABC’s Shark Tank on April 18th for its Mad Mutz mozzarella sticks. Tony Boloney’s is known for next-level pizza, subs, and innovative eats. Mad Mutz mozzarella sticks come in a wide variety of flavors, ranging from The Cacio Pepe, The Hottie, The Truffler, The Lucifer, and many more.
The Grind Coffee to Relocate to New Jersey City Location
Grind Coffee announced via Instagram that after 10 years, it will be moving to a new home at the corner of Suydam and Communipaw, the former General Store location. “While we’ve outgrown our original space. We’re excited for this next chapter— one that continues to celebrate our community, our roots, and everything we’ve built together. Thank you for your support over the years— we can’t wait to welcome you to our new space.”
Bicycle Parking Along Hudson Place Temporarily Removed Due to Construction
Bicycle parking along NJ Transit property at Hoboken Terminal, specifically along Hudson Place between Hudson Street and River Street, was removed on Thursday, March 27th, to facilitate continued construction by LCOR for the temporary NJ Transit bus terminal. Per a Nixle alert, the temporary terminal will be used while construction begins on the new permanent NJ Transit bus terminal. To mitigate the impact on cyclists during construction, the City is relocating bike racks that will be installed and available for use along Hudson Street. Bicycle commuters to the Hoboken Terminal area are encouraged to take advantage of nearby bicycle parking on Sinatra Drive as well as on Hudson Place between River Street and Warrington Plaza. Additionally, Citi Bike members are reminded of the Citi Bike valet on River Street and Hudson Place.
Applications for Hudson County PATH Performs Program Now Open
Hudson County is bringing back its PATH Performs program, a series where local artists and entertainers perform live at 4 PATH stations throughout the area: Exchange Place, Harrison, Hoboken, and Journal Square. Applications to audition for the 2025 lineup are open now until Friday, May 2nd. Click here for more.
Nailed It to Open Second Specialty Location in Hoboken
Locals may be surprised to know that over a dozen beauty businesses have come to Hoboken in the last year, with more anticipated to set down roots in 2025. Within the realm of beauty business are over 20 nail salons, one of which is popular spot, Nailed It. After opening its doors in 2023, Nailed It plans to expand to a second location in Hoboken, thanks to a tip from an eagle-eyed HG reader. Click here for more.
Tiffanie Fisher Announces Hoboken Mayoral Run
Hoboken Councilwoman Tiffanie Fisher officially announced on March 25th that she will be running for Hoboken Mayor. Part of her statement read, “Hoboken is more than just a city—Hoboken’s story is a strong, resilient community. But we’re at a crossroads. From public safety to affordability, from smart development to the quality of our basic city services, we need an experienced leader who delivers real results and puts people at the center of every decision. That’s why I’m running—to be a different kind of mayor, one who ensures City Hall works for everyone and helps Hoboken become the very best it can be.” Click here for more.
Long-Time Hoboken Pizzeria Owner to Open Kebab Spot at Former DC’s Space
DC’s Tavern at 505 8th Street in Hoboken had been a go-to for many dive bar lovers looking for a good time away from the “main” bar scene on Washington Street for nearly 20 years. In 2020, right before the pandemic, it closed its doors for good. After much speculation over the past few months about what the space will become, we now know that Istanbul Doner Kebab will take its place. Click here for more.
After 32 Years in NJ + NY, the MetroCard is Retiring
After three decades of swipes, the iconic yellow and blue MetroCards of New York and New Jersey will be retiring at the end of 2025. The physical cards will be replaced by a fully electronic experience on both sides of the Hudson aimed to make commuting a breeze. Click here for more.
Glamming The Warrior to Host Screen for Life Event in Jersey City
Glamming The Warrior, a non-profit organization, is collaborating with NAACP Jersey City to bring awareness, screenings, and critical health resources to the men in our community, especially those facing the highest mortality rates for prostate and colorectal cancer. Screen for Life is an initiative that will ensure both insured and uninsured men have access to life-saving screenings and healthcare resources. It takes place on Saturday, June 14th at Lincoln Park in Jersey City from 10AM–2PM. Click here to register for the screenings.
City of Hoboken Seeks Developers for Garage B Redevelopment
The City of Hoboken announced on March 25th the issuance of a Request for Conceptual Development Proposals for the Garage B Redevelopment Project, inviting qualified developers to submit concept plans that align with the recently adopted redevelopment plan. Per a City of Hoboken press release, the project would transform the current municipal parking garage, located on Second Street between Hudson and River Streets, into a mixed-use development with a residential component of 100 percent affordable and workforce housing. Click here to learn more and submit a proposal.
City of Hoboken Adds New Multi-Way Stop Signs to Improve Safety
Photo Credit: City of Hoboken
The City of Hoboken announced on March 21st, the installation of new multi-way stop signs at five key intersections near highly trafficked areas as part of the City’s ongoing Vision Zero initiative to eliminate all traffic-related deaths and injuries by 2030. Per a City of Hoboken press release, the locations, approved in partnership with the County, are in close proximity to significant community hubs frequented by vulnerable road users like children and senior citizens, including Church Square Park, Hoboken Middle School, Brandt Elementary School, and an NJ Transit bus stop.
Dean Wes Barbershop to Open in Hoboken
There’s a new barbershop coming to Hoboken. Dean Wes Barbershop is located at 920 Washington Street. It is hosting a soft opening on April 2nd and its grand opening will be in mid-April. The owner, Hussein Bayan, shared with The Hoboken Girl that he has been cutting men’s hair for over 8 years at Mark Daniel Barbershop in Hoboken. Click here for more information or to book online.
Urban Aesthetic Medicine to Host Grand Opening Party in Jersey City
A new med spa is coming to Jersey City at 100 Town Square Place. Urban Aesthetic Medicine will provide luxury aesthetic treatments including botox and dermal fillers. The med spa is hosting a grand opening party on April 17th from 5PM-8PM featuring food, drinks, music, raffles, and exclusive discounts. Click here to RSVP for the event.
JC Night Market Returns for 2025 with Latin Food + Music Festival
JC Night Market returns for 2025 with a celebration of Latin flavors and music. This free event is taking place on April 5th from 3PM-9PM at the City Hall Ancillary Lot, 179 Montgomery Street in Jersey City. JC Night Market will feature food vendors from across Latin America, the Caribbean, Mexico, Colombia, and creative fusion options. There will also be free dance lessons and giveaways. Click here for more information and updates.
Washington Park Association Hosts Inaugural Hudson County Poetry Festival
Washington Park Association of Hudson County (WPA) held its new Hudson County Poetry Festival as part of its Art in the Park series, which selected inaugural Poet in Residence, Yetvart S. Majian, last year. The festival took place on March 29th, from 4PM-9PM at Washington Park on Webster Avenue and Paterson Plank Road. In addition to live performances and features by local poets, the Hudson County Poetry Festival featured local art exhibitors and readings by local university faculty and students.
Traffic + Parking Impacts Due to Tree Pruning in Hoboken
PSE&G pruned trees beneath or adjacent to power lines alongside Hoboken streets last week, causing some traffic impacts. Per the City of Hoboken’s X, tree pruning occurred between the hours of 8AM and 4PM on March 24th and 25th. Road segments and/or lanes were closed as the work occurred.
Hoboken Homeless Shelter Hosts 1980s Dance Party Fundraiser
Hoboken’s homeless shelter hosted a “Back to the ’80s Dance Party” to raise funds and help provide its guests with permanent housing. The event featured a live DJ and a costume contest. The event also commemorated over four decades of the shelter’s service to “Hoboken’s most vulnerable neighbors.” In 2025 so far, the shelter has helped transition 157 guests off the streets into stable housing, delivered over 176,600 meals, and benefited from more than 12,500 hours of volunteer service.
Jersey City Man Found Dead at Hudson County Correctional Facility
PRESS RELEASE: HCPO Investigating Death of Inmate at Hudson County Correctional Facility pic.twitter.com/Pz10P77yDh
— ProsecutorSuarezHCPO (@HCPOProsecutor) March 22, 2025
An inmate at a Hudson County jail was found dead on March 21st. At 12:15PM, Hudson County Correctional Facility staff found Derrick Ellis of Jersey City unresponsive in his cell, according to Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez. He was transported to Jersey City Medical Center where he was soon pronounced dead. The New Jersey Office of the Attorney General was notified, and the incident remains under investigation.
NJCU Board Votes to Pursue Merger with Kean University
The New Jersey City University (NJCU) Board of Trustees voted unanimously (7-0) “to pursue a strategic merger” with Kean University at a special meeting on March 5th. Per the Hudson County View, New Jersey Secretary of Higher Education Brian K. Bridges, Ph.D named Henry Amoroso as the state fiscal monitor for NJCU back in August 2023. Since then, Moody’s and Fitch Ratings moved the university’s credit rating from negative to stable. Montclair State University had also been considered but did not end up coming up for a vote from the NJCU board.
New Jersey Turnpike Approves Newark Bay Bridge Reconstruction
The New Jersey Turnpike Authority’s board unanimously approved advancing the first phase of an $11 billion project to reconstruct and widen the Newark Bay Bridge. Per TAPinto Bayonne, the Turnpike Extension that runs from near Newark Airport to the foot of the Holland Tunnel is made up of a series of elevated bridges, the largest of which runs over the top of Bayonne. Nearly all these bridges are deteriorating, and the Turnpike Authority has determined that there needs to be a massive replacement.
Electronics Company Casio to Relocate Headquarters to Jersey City
Casio, a Japanese company and early pioneer in digital keyboards and watches, is coming to Jersey City. Per the Jersey City Times, the electronics giant will make Jersey City its new headquarters by relocating its Sales and Marketing teams to 185 Hudson Street, establishing a presence in a prime business hub with access to key talent and resources. Casio America is undergoing a strategic transformation aimed at modernizing operations and positioning the company for long-term growth. The relocation process will begin in early 2025, with office transitions expected by late summer.
Bus Stop Near Hoboken Train Station to be Relocated
An interim bus terminal is being built near the Hoboken Train Terminal as part of upgrades involving a mixed-use development in the area, according to NJ Transit. The temporary terminal, which passengers will begin using this summer, will let the transit agency renovate the existing bus overhang located in a lot alongside the train station. The new station will be located west of the River Street and Hudson Place intersection. It will include eight bays serving the 126, 89, 87, 85, 63/64/68, and 22/23 lines, as well as pedestrian pathways, lighting, and passenger loading, unloading and queuing areas.
Barricades Spotted Near Sheraton Lincoln Harbor Hotel in Weehawken
Photo Credit: Jenna Fortino
Barricades were spotted recently near the Sheraton Lincoln Harbor Hotel in Weehawken. According to Weehawken Mayor Richard Turner there is going to be an expansion of the park there. The Hoboken Girl will share more updates as they become available.
Newport Centre Mall to Host Jersey City Marathon Runners Expo
Before the 3rd Annual Jersey City Marathon and Half Marathon in Newport on April 13th participants can collect their race bibs at Newport Centre Mall. Per a Newport Centre press release, the expo will take place on Friday, April 11th from 12PM-8PM and Saturday, April 12th from 9AM-5PM at Newport Centre throughout the mall on Level 1 and bib pick up will take place on Level 1 across from The Cheesecake Factory.
Jersey City Boutique Hotel Unanimously Approved by Zoning Board
Eighteen people addressed the Zoning Board of Adjustment during the March 27th final hearing on a landmark application impacting the Newark Avenue downtown corridor. Per the Jersey City Times, during public comment, nine people spoke in support of the planned Albion Hotel, and nine against it. But when it came time to vote shortly after 9PM, board commissioners voted unanimously 7-0 to approve the site plan of Frank Cretella, owner of Landmark Hospitality and Landmark Developers.
