More Restaurants Planned for Downtown Toms River

When the closed its doors again last winter, it left a hole in a downtown area front and center — Washington Avenue and Main Street.

However over the last couple weeks there has been some recent activity in the anchor corner of Main Street.  It seems that the old location may be preparing to have new occupants. 

Jody Alessandrine, Executive Director of Downtown Toms River Business Improvement District, has hinted that there are some businesses interested in occupying both the street level space where the Java Joint used to be, as well as the second floor space. 

These interested parties are both 'ethnic restaurants' that will bring some new dining options to the downtown area, Alessandrine said, and we should see one new business by the end of next month, and one or two more soon thereafter.

Currently, the intersection has mainstays Capone's and Jimmy C's, as well as Cookie Cab across the street expanding for dinner and the Traco Theater. There's also River Market, Anthony's Fondue and others catering to those looking for a bite to eat.

But Alessandrine said filling the Java Joint spot has been a priority, as are the other vacancies downtown. The Downtown Toms River website maintains a list of  available properties on its website.

Not having a business on the main corner of downtown Toms River doesn’t say much for the revitalization efforts of the Downtown Business Improvement District. Of course the fall-out of tough economic times can be seen all over Toms River, but despite the economic downturn, the BID is working to fill the empty space and bring some life back to the downtown area, Alessandrine said.

Alessandrine also stated that because of the economy, there are many people who are now starting their own businesses as opposed to continually seeking jobs with other companies. This phenomenon has increased the need for available retail space for entrepreneurs to set up shop. 

The BID works with local property owners to make sure rent for retail space is reasonable enough for a start up to be able to afford. Bringing local businesses into the Downtown area is an important step in the BID’s revitalization plans, Alessandrine said.

Alessandrine adds that they “want to get more businesses and create retention. We want people to not just come for the special events. We want people to come more frequently, to try that new place.” 

Other towns such as Point Pleasant and Red Bank have established downtown areas that have been able to retain business because they have unique local businesses. 

The BID is looking to create the same atmosphere in Toms River, by having “more to come back to.”  While it would be nice to have some national chains, Alessandrine said the focus is on helping the local infrastructure first and providing opportunities for local residents.

Alessandrine noted that one of the biggest roadblocks he hears about is the lack of parking in the downtown area. But he disagrees and says there are plenty of parking spots to support the growth of businesses in the downtown area. In addition to the streetside parking on Washington, Main and Robbins, the parking deck and parking lot at are options, as are the two lots on West Water Street near the post office.

The executive director pointed to many special events throughout the year that draw crowds of consumers downtown. The New Jersey State Ice Cream Festival, Chili and Salsa Cookoff, Cruisin Nights and  all are key events whose goals are to raise awareness of the local businesses in Toms River and also bring new people into the area that normally wouldn’t frequent downtown or maybe even aren’t aware that the downtown area exists, Alessandrine said.