New shopping plaza planned for McNaughton’s site in Somers Point
Business Buzz
By Rich Baehrle
The numbers say it all in Somers Point. While many retailers are closing in other areas, Somers Point is not only a stable business environment, it is about to grow tremendously.
It is unfortunate that McNaughton’s Garden Center recently closed its doors. However, the good news is that several new retail, office professional/medical spaces and restaurants are planned for the prior McNaughton site.
Lee Brahin of Brahin Properties is the owner of the site. Brahin told me it is going to be named Defeo Plaza Shopping Center, after the historic Defeo Duck Farm which was originally located not only on this site, but also on the site of Ocean Heights Plaza (ShopRite). In fact, Brahin said the “Duck” is going to be the theme, kind of like, “the duck stops here.”
“I think the site is the best business location in Atlantic County,” Brahin said. “I look forward to developing a center that will complement the synergy in Somers Point and significantly add to it.”
Somers Point attracts consumers from not only Somers Point, but much further including Linwood, Northfield, Egg Harbor Township, Ocean City and beyond.
The rumors seem to be true. It appears that Chick-fil-A and Panera Bread are targeted to be the lead national tenants at Defeo Plaza.
“The center will be a great complement of restaurants, retail, medical and office/professional, with a fresh new state-of-the-art, modern look.”
Unfortunately, he indicated that the approval process could take up to 18 months by the time he obtains NJDEP, county and local permits. It is a long, arduous process. But it will be a welcomed addition to the city. In addition to the two popular restaurants, the blend of uses will be situated in two separate buildings: one 17,000 square feet, and the other proposed building will be approximately 8,000 square feet. Stay tuned for updates.
If you believe this proposed plaza will be a great addition to Somers Point, keep an eye out for when it is scheduled to go to the planning board and come out to support it.
Remember to support local businesses, especially small businesses.
Rich Baehrle, of Berkshire Hathaway Fox and Roach, can be reached at 609-266-6680 or 609-641-0011. Email richardbaehrle@gmail.com or see www.getrichinrealestateSJ.com
