Bloomfield Downtown Gets Boost, Joins Main Street NJ Program

BLOOMFIELD, NJ — Bloomfield’s downtown area got a big boost earlier this week when the township officially joined the Main Street New Jersey program (MSNJ).

On Tuesday, the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) recognized the Township of Bloomfield, and specifically Bloomfield Center, as a “booming downtown commercial district” with the Main Street New Jersey designation.

Bloomfield town officials lauded the choice, writing:

“Bloomfield Center is experiencing a renaissance, with increasing transportation alternatives and a plethora of successful businesses which residents of Bloomfield and surrounding towns frequent. Through the MSNJ Program, Bloomfield will have access to a variety of services, including technical and financial programs throughout the state.”

Under the agreements with the DCA and MSNJ program, Bloomfield Township will continue to improve pedestrian and bicycle accessibility downtown, and commit to more mixed-use developments which have been proven to increase business activity, officials said.

Additionally, the township will bolster its partnerships with downtown businesses in Bloomfield Center, such as its "Dinner Under the Stars" event, officials said.

Mayor Michael Venezia said the designation was an honor, and that it shows that downtown Bloomfield has “come a long way over the past few years.”

Bloomfield Center Alliance Executive Director Ollyn Lettman said the BCA is excited to be part of the initiative.

“Working in partnership with the township, we will use the resources and assistance offered through the MSNJ program to identify and implement new strategies that support the local economy, attract new business/investments, and position Bloomfield Center as a desirable destination to live, work and play,” Lettman said.

Township Administrator Matthew Watkins said the partnership will allow municipal officials to continue efforts to keep Bloomfield a community that “offers something for everyone.”

“Over the next few years we will have renovated train station, new parking, housing, streetscapes, sidewalks and streets… even a new roundabout,” Watkins said. “Downtown Bloomfield is an example of what a thriving downtown can be.”

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