Brick Mayor Introduces Plan to Help Fill Empty Storefronts

A sign advertises commercial leasing at the Laurel Square shopping center. (Credit: Google Maps)

Brick Mayor John Ducey unveiled a plan Tuesday night aimed at encouraging businesses to move into existing, vacant storefronts rather than constructing new buildings.

Under the “Storefront Revitalization Program,” Ducey said the township will waive permit and inspection fees if a business chooses to move into a location less that has been vacant for more than a year and is 5,000 square feet or less in area.

“We want to fill those empty spots,” Ducey said, adding that in speaking with residents, one of their primary concerns is the fact that so many storefronts sit empty while new businesses often construct new buildings.

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The initiative is largely an experiment, the mayor explained. The township cannot prevent a business from construction a new building if they own property and comply with building codes – but the revitalization program could spur a new business owner to take a chance on an existing storefront in order to save money.

“It’s going to help small businesses expand and relocate here in our town,” Ducey said. “Entrepreneurs, please, come to Brick!”