A Six Month Setback
Hartz Mountain Industries is a privately held real estate developer building across diverse sectors. In early 2025, they were prepared to build 250 premium apartments in Cranford, New Jersey— when a six-month permitting delay put the project’s schedule and budget under immediate pressure.
“If the schedule and costs are off on a project, that project will either not happen, or significant changes would need to be made in order to move forward,” explains Mike Noble, Director of Procurement.
Finding a Seasoned Construction Partner
With the project already facing added risk, Hartz needed a construction partner with deep multifamily expertise, competitive pricing, and a proven ability to deliver.
March Construction’s track record on similar multifamily projects gave Hartz the confidence to move forward. “We knew their reputation for this type of work,” Mike explained.
Using Delays as an Advantage
While Hartz awaited permits, March locked in material and subcontractor pricing, ordered critical long‑lead items like electrical switchgear, and advanced shop drawings and submittals so construction could start at full speed the moment approvals came through.
Early, Under Budget, and Ready for Tenants
The team successfully delivered Fairways at Cranford on time and under budget while protecting the owner from further schedule and cost exposure.
That performance positioned the asset timely to reach 90% occupancy in a challenging, non transit-served submarket.
Mike continued, “They held weekly warranty meetings—something I’d never seen before—to track every outstanding issue and report on status. It made the transition from construction to occupancy and building management incredibly smooth.
In his words, “March reduced our schedule risk and brought real cost certainty to the project.
