Watch: monolithic new jersey hotel imploded

Watch: Monolithic New Jersey hotel imploded

MAHWAH, NJ — On Saturday morning the towering Sheraton Crossroads Hotel, a 37-year-old landmark that once dominated the Bergen County skyline, was demolished in a controlled implosion that lasted just 30 seconds. The 25-story, 250-foot-tall structure at 1 International Boulevard, known for its gleaming glass windows and distinctive monolithic design, came crashing down at approximately 7:30 a.m., marking the end of an era for this iconic New Jersey fixture.

The implosion, livestreamed and recorded for viewers, drew significant attention, though authorities strictly enforced safety protocols, closing the site to non-credentialed personnel.

The New Jersey State Police halted traffic on Routes 17, 287, and 202 for up to 15 minutes before and after the event, with additional road closures on Stag Hill Road, Geiger Road, and several local streets in the West Mahwah area.

“This was a serious construction event,” said Township Business Administrator Ben Kezmarsky, emphasizing the coordinated efforts of the Mahwah Police, fire, ambulance, and building departments, alongside the state Department of Labor, which oversees explosives in New Jersey.

Watch: monolithic new jersey hotel imploded
Photo: watch: monolithic new jersey hotel imploded

Built in 1987, the Sheraton Crossroads Hotel, once dubbed the “Superman Building” for the prominent “S” on its roof, was a beacon near the New Jersey-New York border.

Designed by architect John Gilchrist, the hotel’s foundation was notable for being the “largest continuous concrete pour for a building in New Jersey” at the time. The 225-room hotel, set on 142 acres, served as a hub for travelers and locals until its closure in December 2023.

The demolition paves the way for future development, with township officials approving a proposal for a larger building on the site, though specific plans remain undisclosed. Speculation has swirled about a potential Amazon distribution warehouse, but no site plan application has been submitted.

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

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