Updates Shared On Future Of Beachwood Mall In Berkeley

BERKELEY, NJ — For the longest time, the Beachwood Mall site has served as an eyesore on the side of Route 9. But its redevelopment is in the works and there are plans for its future.

A recent meeting focused on the site and its uses - namely, whether a car wash would be an appropriate fit. While a car wash was not explicitly allowed under zoning laws, developers argued that it would be a service establishment and therefore should be allowed.

Township officials agreed. They showed interest in having a car wash on the site and its potential, though some hoped that Route 9 could be widened as well.

"I like the car wash idea because it brings people into that development," Councilwoman Sophia Gingrich said. Customers would come into the plaza for the car wash but would be able to stay and grab a hamburger or go shopping, she said.

Two tenants have signed letters of intent for the site, the developers said. The car wash is one and another is a fast food restaurant.

Councilman Jim Byrnes said he had hoped to see a bank kiosk implemented at the site, which wouldn't take up much space and serve as a convenience for residents.

"I applaud this plan," Council President John Bacchione said of adding a car wash, noting that commercial use of the property was what the governing body was expecting and hopefully residents were as well.

Mayor Carmen Amato voiced his support as well, and the Council unanimously voted to allow a car wash to be approved for the site.

Now, the car wash plan has to go before the township planning board before anything further can be done.

Berkeley officials are in the process of planning the township's future. Another redevelopment meeting is set for Sept. 5 at 6 p.m. in the Municipal Building.

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