After more than 15 years, an undeveloped site in Montgomery Township is finally under construction. Shovels hit the ground in the last quarter of 2023 for Montgomery Promenade, a 292,700-square-foot center on Route 206, according to a recent announcement from SJC Ventures.
Currently on site, clearing on the 54-acre site has been completed and mass grading has begun. Grading and utility work will continue over the next two to three months to prepare the property for roads and infrastructure.
“It’s extremely satisfying to see this development get underway after working with community leaders and stakeholders for many years,” Sean MacLaurin, senior vice president of development at SJC Ventures, said. “After the initial site prep, we will be preparing for slab pouring and vertical construction while simultaneously working with the New Jersey Department of Transportation and Somerset County on the road improvements along (County Route) 518 and (State Route) 206.”
The new mixed-use center will be anchored by a Whole Foods Market grocery store and will include two phases. Other confirmed tenant leases include Ulta, Iron Whale, the Robinson Ale House, Dor L’ Dor NYC, Turning Point Restaurants, More Than Q, European Wax Center, Spavia, Norman’s Hallmark and two new tenants, Hair Cuttery and Woof Gang Bakery.
Philadelphia-based leasing firm MSC is taking over leasing for the remainder of the property.
“The MSC team is thrilled to help bring Montgomery Promenade to life,” Douglas Green, principal at MSC, said. “This is an incredible opportunity to bring the best gourmet grocer in the country to a high-barrier-to-entry market that has long experienced pent-up demand for premium retail. The daily-needs traffic created by Whole Foods Market, coupled with the surrounding affluent residential and unique market positioning, will create a highly desirable landing spot for many national and regional brands.”
SJC Ventures, an Atlanta-based commercial development firm, specializes in mixed-use communities and has developed similar projects throughout the eastern U.S. The firm focuses on transforming urban core parcels into active centers that inject investment and spark engagement in their respective communities.
Montgomery Promenade will feature palisades for walking, dedicated open green spaces, outdoor dining and first-to-market restaurants. The developer is planning new infrastructure to promote walkability and support existing and new traffic patterns plus great amenities.
The center is expected to welcome its first openings in the fourth quarter of 2025.
