FedEx Distribution Facility Opens In Wayne

WAYNE, N.J. — A new FedEx distribution facility opened Wednesday in an area of town, continuing a development and economic revival.

The 163,000-square-foot facility will serve a regional hub for package sorting and delivery for the township and immediate area. It is unknown how many jobs the facility will bring to the township over the course of the 15 years FedEx will be there.

Mayor Chris Vergano has been trying to improve the town's ratable base for years now as several large businesses, like the Hostess bakery and GAF shut down or left, taking with them hundreds of jobs. Other lots, like the former State Farm property on Route 23 and several office buildings on Totowa Road, remain vacant or underdeveloped.

“The completion of construction at the distribution facility at 95 Demarest Drive marks a significant milestone for Wayne Township, as well as for the State of New Jersey and its booming industrial and logistics sectors,” Mayor Verano said. “We view the demand for logistics capacity in the Wayne area as a tremendous opportunity, and expect that the region will immediately benefit from the operations facilitated by this new building upon its opening.”

The FedEx opening is the latest bright spot in recovery of the township's business ratables. The Stahl Shopping Center has a new Dollar Tree store open. The Wayne Towne Center continues to be redeveloped with new businesses and there is currently an application before the Zoning Board of Adjustment to redevelop a 10-acre tract of land on Route 23 South with a Trader Joe's and 232-unit apartment complex.

The Rockefeller Group began construction on the facility began in April.

“The enormous success of this project, as well as the speed at which it was delivered, are a testament to the unwavering support we received from Wayne Township throughout the approval and development processes,” said Clark Machemer, senior vice president for The Rockefeller Group's New Jersey operations. “We’re thrilled to be able to bring one of the most significant players in global logistics to Wayne, spurring substantial job creation and economic development.”

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Photo: Wayne Mayor Christopher Vergano cuts the ceremonial ribbon at the new 163,000-square-foot FedEx distribution facility on Demarest Drive. Courtesy of Amanda Ferraro