Newark-native Richard Meier has not forgotten his roots.  Established by the Puritans as a colony to follow the rules of the church in the 17^th century, Newark evolved into a prosperous industrial center during the 19^th century, experienced a harsh period of industrial and social  decline after WWII, and is currently seeking to reestablish its reputation as a renewed urban metropolis.  Meier has supported such efforts to restore the city’s vitality, including chairing an international design competition for the creation of a Visitors’ Center for Newark (check out some proposals we’ve previously featured here).  Back in 2010, Meier & Partners shared their vision for a new Teachers Village for the city – a four block-long mixed-use development aimed at attracting young professionals who work in the educational system to reside in the downtown area.  This past week, we are happy to share that the Village, which includes two school buildings with three charter schools and a daycare center, 70,000 sqf for retail space, in addition to the rental apartments for Newark teachers, has broken ground.

More about the project after the break.