Slow Progress on Filling Old A&P Space

After nearly 10 years of waiting, Jefferson residents have seen no progress with having the site of the old A&P store filled by a new tenant.

Last October, Jefferson Township Mayor Russell Felter announced that negotiations were complete with the Tractor Supply Company for a Tractor Supply Store to move into the space. Now, some seven months later, the store is still unoccupied.

The Azarian Group, a Midland Park-based management and development group owns the shopping center where the old A&P is located, near the corner of Chamberlain Road and Ridge Road. However, the A&P owns the building. And according to Felter, there are landlord/tenant issues to be solved.

“No one wants to see this space filled more than I do,” said Felter. “I want to see businesses come into town.”

However, Felter said, A&P’s bankruptcy has become an issue. The Montvale-based grocery chain filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in December of last year.

“Right now, with A&P being in bankruptcy, there are landlord tenant issues under discussion between Azarian and A&P. We’ve been in contact with lawyers for both sides, and we’re hopeful that the situation will be resolved soon,” Felter said.