Councilman Matt Adams | June 23, 2023
Scotch Plains Takes a Historic Step Forward
Last week, the Township Council was honored to take a historic step forward – giving conditional approval for a well-respected developer to proceed with a community-driven plan to create the type of downtown that we all want.
You have been hearing for years about downtown redevelopment, as Scotch Plains leaders from as far back as the 1980s have been calling for the creation of a modern, vibrant, walkable downtown with all the amenities one would expect from a high-quality suburban town like ours.
Four decades worth of Master Plans for Scotch Plains called for a revitalized downtown, but meaningful progress has proven elusive. Now, it is really happening!
The path forward was certainly not easy, and it took the dedication and focus of Mayor Josh Losardo, the Township Council and our Administration, headed by Al Mirabella, to make this happen. Over the past few months, a working group has reviewed and scrutinized the plans of 11 developers before our partner moving forward was selected based upon the ultimate recommendation of the evaluation team.
As I have shared the good news around town, attending Little League and other community activities, I was often asked: So, what does this all mean for Scotch Plains?
The answer is simple: It means everything!
Downtown redevelopment is a popular strategy across the country and beyond, revitalizing under-used properties in dense areas for the common good. Properties that have low rent, low value and low traffic are typically converted into sought-after destinations, such as restaurants, boutiques and popular stores. We are doing just that to our dated downtown central business district.
Transforming a downtown has numerous benefits that extend to residents, businesses, and the overall community. By revitalizing our central business district, Scotch Plains is creating opportunities for new businesses to flourish and existing ones to expand.
The infusion of investment capital and the influx of customers creates a regional destination place, leading to job creation, a stronger tax base and higher property values. Entrepreneurs are attracted to these types of revitalized communities, as they recognize that vibrancy is equal to success. The business community is abuzz with excitement, and my colleagues and I are fielding lots of inquiries about the opportunities that lie ahead in Scotch Plains.
Indeed, as I have said before, Scotch Plains is on the rise!
Moreover, downtown redevelopment rejuvenates the entire neighborhood. As under-used parcels become well-designed spaces, area property owners experience an increase in the value of their assets, creating a win-win for all.
Redevelopment also expands the non-residential tax base, in which Scotch Plains residents can benefit from new private revenue generated for public services, infrastructure improvements and even more special events in our downtown throughout the year, such as concerts, festivals and other well-attended community events.
It is no secret that residential taxpayers bear a disproportionately high percentage of the tax base in Scotch Plains. That needs to change in order to keep our town affordable for all.
I am pleased to see that green spaces are integrated into the plan, reflecting the wishes of Scotch Plains residents. These areas are ideal for relaxation and local gatherings, as they mix well with the eateries, shops and other features that will be part of our soon-to-be rejuvenated downtown.
I know this grand initiative will create an enormous sense of pride for residents, as we will all bring friends, family and other visitors to a popular destination place, right in the heart of Scotch Plains.
I am also pleased that the final downtown redevelopment plan incorporates Scotch Plains’ historical character and design. Through visionary architecture and a detailed site plan for the nine acres of property in the redevelopment zone, the new construction is designed to fit seamlessly, reinforcing Scotch Plains’ character.
So, you can see why we are excited. This initiative hits all the right marks: economic growth, increased property values, improved quality of life, sustainable living, community engagement, and new recreational and cultural opportunities.
By investing in valuable, but under-used parcels in our downtown, we will create a vibrant and thriving district, serving residents and visitors in the heart of Scotch Plains for generations to come.
As this plan unfolds over the next couple of years, any residents with questions and input should feel free to reach out to me or any of my colleagues. The best days for our community are yet to come!
