The benefits of living near a train station have long been known. In fact, Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill made it a point of emphasis during her campaign.
Russo Development, in conjunction with NJ Transit and Terminal Construction, recently provided extra emphasis.
At a community celebration at the new LIA building in Orange that marked the opening of LIA’s leasing office — following the full lease-up of its sister property, Essex & Crane, just steps away from the same station – the groups provided some residents with NJ Transit gift cards.
Residents who participated in the “My NJ Transit Story” promotion and shared their experiences commuting from Orange using NJ Transit were $100 NJ Transit gift cards in appreciation for their contributions. One resident was given a free monthly pass.
Russo CEO Ed Russo said his group was delighted to do so.
“When we partnered with NJ TRANSIT to redevelop the Essex & Crane site, our goal was to create housing that celebrates transit as an everyday advantage,” he said. “Three years later, Essex & Crane’s complete lease-up and LIA’s immediate momentum show how the right infrastructure creates community — it connects opportunity, reduces stress, and drives urban renewal.”
Orange Mayor Dwayne Warren said the impact has been huge.
One resident, Dmitrii Dobrin, explained.
“Living steps away from the Orange Station has completely changed how I manage my day — from commuting to work or school to visiting family,” she said. “I’m saving time, reducing stress, and truly enjoying city access without city living.”
Other participants echoed that sentiment.
Natalie Malatino, a Seton Hall student interning in New York City, said that living across from the station made it possible to balance work, school, and life without worrying about traffic or parking.
Yaire Hernandez, a graduate student at Montclair State, said the real-time NJ Transit updates in the building help make every day more predictable.
And Teresa Mateus, who commutes into New York City, described how Essex & Crane has transformed her ability to move around the entire metro area without a thought or hassle.”
Developed by Russo Development with construction partner Terminal Construction, Essex & Crane and LIA have quickly become models for transit-oriented redevelopment in Essex County — offering residents sophisticated design, modern amenities, and seamless connection to regional destinations via NJ Transit.
