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<\/a><\/p>\nAlthough Jackie Urgo is a lifelong resident of Manhattan, her family has ties to Jersey City going back decades, to when they owned the popular Schapiro\u2019s wine shop in the state\u2019s second largest city.<\/span><\/p>\n Redefining and reshaping the Jersey City market and skyline have been a passion of Urgo\u2019s for over 20 years. Her firm, The Marketing Directors, is behind the development of 99 Hudson, which, when completed, will be the tallest residential building in Jersey City.<\/p>\n We caught up with Urgo to talk about Jersey City\u2019s remarkable transformation and her role in re-shaping its future.<\/p>\n BuzzBuzzNews: How did the great-granddaughter of Schapiro\u2019s wines founder get a taste for real estate?<\/b><\/p>\n Jackie Urgo: Having brought new developments to market in Jersey City for over 25 years, it has been exciting to watch the neighborhood evolve and flourish. Each new building Downtown has helped bring new life to a neighborhood formerly marred with parking lots and empty warehouses, replacing them with communities, retail opportunity, and new residents to patronize them.<\/p>\n Jersey City follows suit with Brooklyn, having transitioned from a \u2018Manhattan alternative\u2019 to a brand, all while keeping its own personality. I\u2019m looking forward to watching the boom continue and spread to other parts of Jersey City.<\/p>\n BBN: At the recent Jersey City Summit, some developers felt that Jersey City was unlike any other market in the country. For example, the level of development taking place, Jersey City’s population growth and the number of new businesses now calling Jersey City home. How true do you think that is? What makes Jersey City unique?<\/b><\/p>\n JU: Jersey City has reclaimed its title of \u2018Most Diverse City in America\u2019 which is evidenced everywhere from its arts scene to specialty shops to its many cultural programs and events. Couple this with local laws that encourage small businesses and Jersey City offers a variety of unique cultural dining and shopping experiences that appeal to many.<\/span><\/p>\n BBN: What are the biggest obstacles in selling Jersey City to both investors and new residents?<\/b><\/p>\n JU: The Hudson River! Particularly when it comes to New Yorkers who are unaware just how close Jersey City is, being on the other side of the river is a big obstacle to overcome. However, it is an eye opener for many when they realize Jersey City is five minutes from Downtown Manhattan and fifteen minutes from Midtown Manhattan with vibrant neighborhoods and each with their own unique character.<\/span><\/p>\n BBN: Do you think it shortchanges Jersey City to sell it merely as a more affordable option to Manhattan and Brooklyn?<\/b><\/p>\n JU: Absolutely \u2013 each location offers a different style of living. Jersey City residents have grown to love it for its walkability and convenience, neighborhood-ran parks, charming streetscapes, easy access to Manhattan and Brooklyn, all with less hustle and bustle. Lower rent and not paying the city tax is just an added perk!<\/p>\n