Morristown Seeks Redevelopment Proposals For North Park Place

MORRISTOWN, NJ — Morristown officials are accepting developers' proposals to revamp empty storefronts along North Park Place and Washington Street, including the former Century 21 store.

The town adopted a North Park Place Redevelopment Plan back in February to revitalize this area, which is adjacent to the Morristown Green but "has languished in recent decades" with tenants moving out and the buildings falling into disrepair, officials said.

The 11 properties in the redevelopment area include several lots on Washington Street, along with storefronts on North Park Place that are adjacent to the Morristown Green.

These buildings include a Charles Schwab office, the former Jos. A. Bank store, and the aforementioned Century 21 department store, which had been at the corner of Speedwell and North Park Place for 65 years before it closed in 2020.

The plan "envisions a dynamic and vibrant mixed-use development" across the 3.2-acre area, officials said.

Officials noted that the North Park Place Redevelopment Plan permits buildings no taller than five stories, with commercial/retail uses and up to 160 residential units. Any development concepts would also have to adhere to historic preservation objectives, including preserving the existing structure at 10 North Park Place.

The plan also requires the creation of a pedestrian route between North Park Place and the parking garage on Cattano Avenue.

The town is seeking applicants who can provide detailed information about their development team, design concept for the area, and implementation approach.

Mayor Tim Dougherty said that progress on the redevelopment plan marks another major milestone "in our efforts to enhance our beloved Morristown."

"We are eager to partner with innovative developers who share our vision for a thriving downtown that offers a mix of residential, commercial, and public spaces," said Dougherty, who also sits on the town planning board.

"This project will enrich the vibrancy of our community and create a lasting impact for residents and visitors alike."

The properties are owned by David Brown, who has a contract to sell them to Accurate Developers of Lakewood. As local news site Morristown Green reported, Brown has recently sued Accurate and alleged the developer failed to make good on a purchase agreement back in 2022.

Brown also disputed the town planning board's claims that the properties were neglected and might be condemned, filing a lawsuit against the town which was later dismissed, according to reporting by Kevin Coughlin.

Click here to see the town's full request for qualifications and proposals. Submissions are due by July 30.