Although still only a concept, a plan for a redeveloped Texaco site was presented to the Bayonne Local Redevelopment Authority at the July 20 meeting that could see the transformation of the southwest corner of the city, turning a largely abandoned and contaminated property into a viable mixed use community.

Members of the BLRA voted to conditionally designate K-Land Corp. - part of the Kaplan Companies of Highland Park - as developer for the Texaco Redevelopment Area.

Company principals Michael and Jason Kaplan joined their attorney, Robert Cavanaugh and planner, David Middow, to unveil a preliminary plan for the 71-acre site.

In hopes of giving Texaco a nudge to develop the long-vacant site, the Bayonne City Council made it part of a redevelopment zone.

Late last year, Texaco hired Kaplan Companies to remove a long dilapidated pier from the site, part of the first steps towards eventual redevelopment. While some city officials are still cautious in regards to the proposed redevelopment, most believe this is a positive sign, moving towards the aim of turning the unused property into a development that would feature homes, stores, and a waterside walkway.

Middow said the plan outlined before the BLRA on July 20 fully complies with the requirements of the redevelopment zone the city passed in 2003.

"This is a waterfront development project with views of the Bayonne Bridge," he said. "We look to enhance those views."

In fact, the development would allow the public to view the bridge from the West, a rare view currently unless by water.

Company officials said Kaplan has already worked with the city to improve the area, by repairing a crushed drainage pipe that had once been responsible for flooding.

The property would see a mixture of loft and traditional town houses that would emphasize space.

"The conditional designation is the first step in the process of redevelopment," said Nancy Kist, executive director of the BLRA.

Texaco/Kaplan has 180 days from July 20 to negotiate a redevelopment agreed with the city.

As proposed, the site would see 1,310 total uses, a mixture of town houses, condominiums and rental units.

While the city's redevelopment plan allows for a maximum of eight stories, the plan calls for a maximum of seven stories with lower units nearer the waterway.

A waterfront walkway will run along Newark Bay and the Kill Van Kull sides of the property, as well as a network of roads that are targeted to provide the public with views of the water.

Middow said the walkway is open to the general public as are the roads.

"We are looking to create a traditional neighborhood," he said.

Part of the design would enhance views and open space. Garages would be hidden from view behind units in order to provide a more attractive front. Some areas would be designed to look like urban landscapes such as those along the waterfront in Hoboken or Jersey City, with retail on the first floor and residential units above, he said. The site would also provide ample pedestrian walks and pocket parks.

In complying with the requirements of the city's redevelopment plan, the Texaco sight will remain open to the general public, rather than becoming a gated community.

Middow said the site might even see additional benefits with a possible extension of the Hudson Bergen Light Rail - currently slated to stop at 8th Street - is extended to First Street and Avenue A where the main entrance to the Texaco property. Also envisioned is ferry service that could connect the site even more directly to the rest of the Hudson County waterfront and New York City.