Freehold Twp Committee Approves Expanded Raceway Mall Uses

FREEHOLD, NJ - Freehold Township’s primary governing body has approved amended zoning regulations around the popular Freehold Raceway Mall, effectively expanding approved uses of the site to bring in modernized attractions.

Given that the legislation has redefined the area as a “regional mall shopping center,” new uses that could potentially come to the mall now include movie theaters, performing arts facilities, arcades, indoor climbing gyms, bowling alleys, roller rinks and virtual reality centers, as well as designated civic, cultural and senior citizen centers, as well as educational spaces, co-working spaces, breweries, health care offices and urgent care facilities.

The approval stems from an ordinance introduced May 25 aimed at updating zoning and land use requirements in Freehold Township's regional mall zone. The motion was approved during a July 13 meeting of the township committee.

Automobile dealerships located in Freehold Township are also now permitted to store new automobiles outside of the Winner’s Circle loop. Other permissible uses include electric vehicle charging stations, mounted solar energy systems, outdoor seating areas and gas/alternative fuel stations associated with a warehouse club.

Additionally, retail stores, warehouse clubs, restaurants and retail stack storage facilities must also be contained within a building with at least 2,500 square feet of space, down from a previous requirement of 10,000 square feet.

The amendment was approved by Mayor Th0mas Cook, as well as three committee members. Deputy Mayor Anthony Ammiano voted no on the motion to amend the regulations, arguing that the changes are not a long-term solution for the changing area.

The mall has faced several large-scale vacancies in recent memory, with many stemming during the coronavirus pandemic. Retail giants and former mall anchors Lord & Taylor and Nordstrom have departed, as well as Sears, The Disney Store, Brio Italian Grille and Ruby Tuesday. While some view the expanded uses as a step toward modernization, critics - including Ammiano - say the move is simply not an adequate long-term strategy.

You can read the full ordinance here.