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Brick to extend storefront fee waiver program to boost vacant property renovations

BRICK, N.J. – Brick Township officials will be voting to extend the town’s Storefront Revitalization Program, continuing a local incentive that waives construction fees for business owners who renovate empty commercial spaces.

The program, first adopted in 2015, has been credited with helping to fill long-vacant storefronts across the township.

Officials say the fee waiver has proven effective in encouraging investment from private property owners and business tenants.

Under the updated ordinance, the program — originally set to expire this year — will now remain in effect through December 31, 2026.

Township leaders said the decision reflects the continued success of the initiative in promoting commercial rehabilitation and boosting Brick’s business districts.

Extension aims to sustain redevelopment momentum

The ordinance amends Chapter 145-6 of the Township Code, titled “Waiver of Fees for Construction to Promote Renovation of Existing Vacant Commercial Structures.” The rule allows qualifying property owners to avoid certain local construction fees when renovating or rebuilding vacant commercial sites.

Township officials said the extension provides stability for business owners planning projects in the coming year, ensuring they can benefit from cost savings that often make the difference in whether a renovation moves forward.

Brick’s mayor and council noted the program has been an effective economic development tool, particularly in older commercial corridors where vacancy rates had previously been high.

The revised ordinance maintains all prior provisions of Chapter 145-6, with only the expiration date amended.

Focus on filling empty storefronts

The Storefront Revitalization Program remains one of Brick’s core redevelopment initiatives, part of broader efforts to support small businesses and enhance local shopping areas. Officials believe that by keeping the fee waiver in place, the township will continue to attract new tenants to existing spaces rather than expand outward.

The measure now awaits publication and final adoption, as required by state law, before taking full effect.


Key Points

  • Brick Township extended its Storefront Revitalization Program through December 31, 2026.
  • The initiative waives construction fees for renovating vacant commercial buildings.
  • Officials say the program has successfully encouraged redevelopment and business growth.

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