A new Blink Fitness has opened in East Orange, signifying a step forward for a mixed-use redevelopment underway in the city’s downtown Transit Village District.
Paramount Assets purchased the 50,000-square-foot property located at 600 Central Ave. It plans to redevelop the asset from a retail/office space to retail/multifamily.
“Great things are happening in the Central Avenue commercial district,” said Paramount Assets’ Richard Dunn, senior vice president. “Our firm has been involved in East Orange for many years, and we are watching with anticipation as this neighborhood experiences more and more redevelopment – much of it geared to introduce luxury rental apartments. This new inventory is attracting residents looking to take advantage of what is becoming a trendy, mass-transit-accessible, walkable downtown.”
“The opening of Blink Fitness along this stretch of one of our busiest commercial areas marks a key turning point in the progress of not just Central Avenue, but our Transit Village and our entire city,” East Orange Mayor Ted R. Green said. “We are especially excited for projects like these that creatively breathe new life into our classic and historic spaces. We consistently encourage our residents to focus on their well-being and we are proud to welcome Blink Fitness as another option for living a healthier lifestyle.”
The 16,400-square-foot Blink Fitness health club joins a mix tenants at the property, including a deli, fabric store, optometry practice and doctor’s office.
David Dunkelman, executive vice president of Soloff Retail, brokered the lease and represented both parties.
“Fitness is an underserved retail category in this neighborhood, and Blink is among the most active affordable fitness chain brands in the market today,” Dunn said. “It is recognized for its professional operation, excellent programming and success in high-density, downtown markets. In short, it is an ideal match for 600 Central Ave.”
The East Orange lease represents Blink Fitness’ fourth location with Paramount Asset’s New Jersey-based portfolio. Other locations include Perth Amboy, and two to-be opened spots in Newark and Irvington.
“We are excited to open our 67th Blink Fitness location during this exciting time of redevelopment in East Orange,” said Todd Magazine, Blink Fitness president. “Our Mood Above Muscle philosophy will ensure that our location is a healthy and positive addition to the Paramount Assets property and the East Orange community.”
