The proposed site of a major redevelopment project in South Toms River. (Credit: Google Maps)
A major mixed-use development project that will consist of hundreds of residential units, hotel rooms and nearby retail space has been proposed in South Toms River.
The development firm, M&T at STR Urban Renewal, LLC, owned at least partially by developer Jack Morris, is proposing to build 360 multi-family residential units, a 100 room extended stay hotel, a 6,000 square foot “clubhouse/lobby/leasing center” and two 4,200 square foot retail pads. The complex would be located between Chamberlain Street and Railroad Avenue near Dover Road. Its approximate address would be 379 Dover Road, according to tax records, where a Wawa convenience store and gas station is located.
The plot of land was owned by Jersey Central Power & Light before being purchased by M&T. It is a declared area in need of redevelopment, a legal designation that allows a municipality to seek and appoint a developer to build on a blighted plot of land. The proposed development is subject to approval by the South Toms River planning board.
The property is located within the Special Economic Development Zone and does not require any use variances, according to an application submitted to the borough. Several minor “bulk” variances are required for the project, such as the size of loading zones and parking spaces.
The planning board notice does not detail the size of the proposed residential units nor the hotel. It also does not delineate how many buildings will need to be constructed to fit the units within the proposed lots. The board will hold a hearing on the case at its Nov. 19 meeting, which begins at 7 p.m. at the borough municipal complex, located at 19 Double Trouble Road.
