Sean Ryan is associate editor of Real Estate New Jersey

HOBOKEN, NJ-Ground has broken on the W Hotel's first sojourn into New Jersey. Locally based Applied Development Co. will develop and own the facility on the Hudson waterfront facing Manhattan. Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, parent company of the W brand, will manage. The property is set for a fall 2007 opening. For previous coverage, click here.

In addition to its 225 rooms, the 25-story W will also feature 37 condominium units. Amenities will include a 5,000-sf Bliss Spa, more than 11,000 sf of meeting space and a bar with an unobstructed view of the Manhattan skyline. Gwathmey Siegel & Associates have been tapped to be architects for the project. Other Applied projects in Hudson County include the Shipyard mixed-use community north of the W site, the 1,813-unit Port Liberté condominium complex in Jersey City and the almost-completed Liberty National Golf Course, also in Jersey City.

"The hotel's proximity just steps from the ferry terminal and PATH station will allow guests and residents to conveniently enjoy Manhattan's business, cultural and entertainment venues," said Michael Barry, principal at Applied. He also noted that it's close to the Meadowlands complex, Newark Liberty International Airport and Hoboken's downtown district.