New Billiards Business Opens in Morristown

“Towns brag about having 10 percent vacancy rate. Ours is 4 percent,” said Councilwoman Rebecca Feldman at last week’s council meeting.

To help keep that percentage low is Billiard Family Club, which just opened next to Sherwin-Williams Paints at 147 Speedwell Ave. in Morristown.

Owner Hector Cardona opened the doors to his business this past weekend and it’s already gaining popularity among the immediate area. “The grand opening will come later.”

"It’s for the latino community and the people who live nearby,” he said. “I think it brings a new option to Morristown and this area.”

He said that there will be coffee, soda and water, no food or alcohol. He added that there will be leagues set up for men, women and children “for them to have fun and try it out.”

“What we want to do is make it a family affair,” said Cardona. “I want people to come, just have fun with friends, get better (at the game), see results and enjoy it.”

Billiard Family Club replaced a calling and phone center. Cardona has been making improvements to the place over the last several months, such as upgrading the walls and carpet.

There are four pool tables and two carom tables. He didn’t cut corners with his tables. “They’re professional heated tables,” he said.

“Carom is popular in Asian and Latin countries. It used to be popular here in the state. I’m going to try to bring it back,” he said, adding that there will be instructors to teach those who are not familiar with the game.

The last leg of the opening process was done last week when the Morristown town council approved Cardona’s application for a billiard parlor license.

“They already met the planning board and zoning requirements,” said Councilwoman Alison Deeb. “I commend the applicant for coming to us with a formal application ... It’s a great idea.”

Some members had questions about capacity and parking issues.

Cardona said that with two people per table, he expects capacity to max out at 15-20 people.

Hours of operation:

• Monday - Thursday: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.
• Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m. - midnight
• Sunday: 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Cardona said that he hadn't set up the phone number for the business yet.

At last week's council meeting, Councilwoman Raline Smith-Reid brought up concerns with parking and asked if it’s going to be an issue

Cardona said that it’s not going to a problem because “It’s mostly for leagues.”

“We are trying to promote Morristown as a walkable community,” said Armington, adding that there are quite a few parking options nearby such as the garages.

“I’m requesting that those lots there by the fire house and on Flagler Street are monitored more,” said Smith-Reid, adding concerns about overnight parking. “For the next meeting, I’m requesting a report on the last two years how many tickets were given for overtime parking for those two locations from the Morristown parking authority.”