The New Jersey Business & Industry Association (NJBIA), the nation's largest state-level employer association, recently presented its New Good Neighbor Award to Alfred Sanzari Enterprises for its development of the Aflred N. Sanzari Medical Arts Building in Hackensack.

NJBIA President Philip Kirschner presented the award Frank Pratt, vice president of Sanzari Enterprises, at the 44th Annual New Good Neighbor Awards luncheon, held June 8 at the Sheraton at Woodbridge Place in Iselin.

Sanzari Enterprises redeveloped an entire square block of Essex Street, which was plagued by aging buildings and a lack of parking. The Medical Arts building replaces four obsolete structures with an 85,000-square-foot medical office building and on-site parking for 350 cars.

"This is a perfect example of what an urban renewal project should be," NJBIA President Philip Kirschner said. "It beautifies the neighborhood while creating jobs and helping the local economy. We are proud to present Sanzari Enterprises with a New Good Neighbor award."

The project adds to the streetscape with a sleek granite façade and solar reflective glass. Retail stores on the first floor include Fleet Bank, Duane Reade, Café Policastro and Crystal Nails. The three remaining floors have already been leased by the medical center.

The Sanzari Medical Arts Building provides for 350 full-time jobs. Furthermore, the entire project was funded by Sanzari Enterprises. No taxpayers' funds were used.

"As a life long of Hackensack, it was my father's vision to undertake projects that he felt would transform neighborhoods and positively affect the quality of life for residents and tenants," said David Sanzari, president of Alfred Sanzari Enterprises. "This new medical office building which bears his name is an important first step in what is hoped will be an ongoing and successful revitalization of the City of Hackensack."

Hackensack Mayor John F. "Jack" Zisa nominated the project and Alfred N. Sanzari Enterprises carried out the construction.

The New Good Neighbor Awards are presented annually to new developments or renovations that exhibit architectural excellence, create jobs, and enhance the community. An independent panel of judges selected the winners. In 2004, NJBIA received 31 New Good Neighbor Award nominations representing nearly $600 million worth of construction and creating 5,600 jobs. NJBIA represents more than 22,000 member companies throughout New Jersey.