Barnegat Twp officials are hoping that a state-approved "Town Center" designation will entice businesses into the municipality. The designation allows municipalities to create more relaxed zoning requirements as a lure for new business.
The township applied seven years ago to state Division of Planning for the Town Center designation, and it was finally approved Dec. 7, 2011. The Township Committee introduced five ordinances March 5 that allowed a Town Center designation. A public hearing is scheduled for May 7 on the ordinances.
In 2002, neighboring Ocean Township (Waretown) started to develop a Town Center designation plan. It was not until 2007 that the first business in the designated area opened. The Town Center in Waretown is now home to a ShopRite supermarket as well as 10 other businesses. Since construction started on the Town Center project, Waretown officials have seen the town’s commercial value increase by $7.5 million.
The "Town Center" designation allows for cities and towns to create successful business centers by increasing ground coverage of buildings from 30 to 70 percent which could see larger stores moving into the area.
For over 150 years Barnegat has been an ideal place for families to enjoy a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. A town where people get to know one another...and located on beautiful Barnegat Bay.
Barnegat offers businesses excellent growth potential as the town’s population has been increasing steadily over the past decades. Our schools, sports clubs, and recreation activities offer children an excellent, safe, and well rounded education.
If you're thinking about starting a business or buying a home in Barnegat, now is the time!
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