Manchester, NJ — A major mixed-use development on South Hope Chapel Road has cleared a critical hurdle after the Ocean County Planning Board granted conditional final site plan approval to Hope Chapel Town Square, a multi-building project that includes residential townhomes, commercial space, affordable housing, and a large daycare facility.
The project is being touted by the current Manchester Township mayor and council through their ties with Ocean County developers.
The project, proposed by Hope Chapel Town Square, LLC, is set to occupy Lots 1, 2, and 4 in Block 66, with frontage on South Hope Chapel Road (CR 547) and Ridge Avenue. Plans include 87 townhouse units spread across 13 buildings, a two-story 20,800-square-foot commercial building with 17 affordable apartments on the second floor, and a separate 22,400-square-foot two-story daycare. The development will feature 484 parking spaces throughout the site.
The application was approved with contingencies during a Planning Board meeting, with Ms. McCrystal making the motion, seconded by Mr. Marra. Mr. Tirella abstained.
Ocean County imposed 13 specific conditions the applicant must satisfy before receiving the final planning board approval stamp. These include the submission of a “no further review” letter from the Pinelands Commission, a right-of-way dedication expanding the half-width of the county road to 40 feet from centerline, and proper easements for sight triangles at all access points.
The county is also requiring revisions to show pavement widening along the county road to accommodate acceleration and deceleration lanes, as well as the construction of handicap-accessible ramps at intersections in compliance with current ADA standards.
A guiderail warrant analysis must be provided for the proposed guiderail, and the plans must be updated to reflect proper curb limits and cross slopes to maintain positive roadway drainage flow. Traffic and drainage designs must also be updated in accordance with memos dated July 2, 2025.
In addition to these design and infrastructure changes, the developer must pay off-tract fees for both drainage and traffic improvements, with amounts to be determined by the Ocean County Engineer.
The development represents one of the largest proposed for this area of Manchester and is expected to bring a mix of housing, child care, and commercial activity to a fast-growing corridor in the township.
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Key Points
- Hope Chapel Town Square in Manchester approved with conditions by Ocean County Planning Board
- Plans include 87 townhomes, commercial space with affordable apartments, and a large daycare facility
- Developer must fulfill 13 infrastructure, design, and fee-related conditions before final approval
A massive mixed-use development in Manchester has secured conditional county approval, bringing homes, child care, and retail to South Hope Chapel Road.
