Tenn Ave AC Developers Host Informational Meeting to Attract Tenant Interest
On September 17, an informational meeting was held for potential tenants interested in joining Atlantic City’s innovative shipping container park retail and entertainment project, set to transform the Orange Loop. The meeting attracted a diverse group of entrepreneurs eager to learn about the unique opportunities this project offers.
Representatives from the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), Midtown CDC, North Beach AC, Stockton University, the Small Business Administration (SBA), NJ Community Capital, ACIA, and the AC Chamber of Commerce answered questions and presented various financial assistance options to help new and established businesses thrive in the upcoming container park.
The meeting kicked-off with an outdoor tour of the property at 1400 Pacific Avenue, allowing guests to visualize the set-up of the shipping containers. Attendees received informative packets featuring renderings, sample floor plans, rent details, and contact information for all presenters. An application to receive a Letter of Intent (LOI) was also distributed, with organizers urging interested parties to act quickly, as the 22 available spaces are expected to fill up rapidly.
Sharonda Harris-Bunton, a prospective tenant and founder of Vegans Are Us, shared her enthusiasm for the project: “The new project at TennAveAC is set to be a transformative force for Atlantic City, building a vibrant community that connects local small businesses with the thriving tourism sector. The meeting was highly organized and provided invaluable insights into the tools available to help businesses succeed. I’m honored to be part of this initiative and excited about the growth and opportunities it will bring to both the inner city and its visitors.”
Harris-Bunton plans to bring a dedicated vegan restaurant to Atlantic City, a concept she believes the city currently lacks. “My vision is to create a space that caters not only to tourists but also to the local community, offering an inclusive dining experience that meets the growing demand for plant-based options,” she explained. “This project represents an opportunity to contribute to Atlantic City’s growth in a nourishing and sustainable way, and I’m thrilled to be part of it.”
The shipping container park, made possible by a grant of nearly $2.5 million from New Jersey’s Activation, Revitalization, and Transformation Program, will feature an entertainment venue, a local vendor market, and a gourmet marketplace.
The project is spearheaded by Maps 3 Partners, consisting of Mark Callazzo, a key figure in the revitalization of the Orange Loop; Adam Zengel, former director of Entertainment Operations at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City; and Paige Washington, director of Development at Sister Jeans Kitchen in Atlantic City.
“We’re passionate about attracting new residents to Atlantic City by creating neighborhoods with unique entertainment and lifestyle venues,” said Mark Callazzo, Orange Loop Developer. “This container park project underscores my partners’ and my continued commitment to the economic resurgence of the resort, transforming vacant and neglected spaces into vibrant communities.”
As the shipping container park moves forward, it promises to be a catalyst for economic growth and community engagement in Atlantic City, providing exciting new opportunities for entrepreneurs and visitors alike.
Businesses looking for more information about the shipping container park project may contact: info@tennaveac.com
Renderings available upon request.
