Bergenfield SID Sees Better Times for Downtowns

BERGENFIELD, NJ, September 3, 2009 -- While gloomy economic reports continue to dominate the headlines, Grand Opening banners, sparkling new facades and “Help Wanted” posters on storefronts in Bergenfield's Special Improvement District (BSID) may be signs of better times ahead for local downtowns. In Bergenfield, a wide range of commercial and retail spaces, a steady flow of consumer traffic along the Washington Avenue corridor and the support of the public/private partnership between the borough and the BSID have encouraged diverse business owners to open their doors in the district.

Dennis Christensen and his son Matt were looking for a good location for the AAMCO franchise they co-own. Their research showed very few AAMCO locations in Bergen County and a high degree of name recognition for the well-branded auto repair company. When AAMCO corporate representatives confirmed data showing more than 37,000 vehicles passing by each day at a location at 233 S. Washington Avenue, the deal was sealed. The Christensen's opened on June 15 th , providing a full range of total car care services in addition to AAMCO's specialty, transmission repair.

Manny Ishac, the owner of Michael's Bagel & Deli next door at 239 S. Washington Avenue, was glad to welcome them to the neighborhood. “It's good to have busy neighbors, and I wish them good luck,” says Ishac. “AAMCO has a great name and advertises so I think they will do well. I'm hoping people will stop in my store for a bagel and coffee while they have their cars serviced next door,” he adds.

The Christensen's have already gotten into the spirit of making the district an inviting and welcoming place for visitors by supporting the BSID's planting and landscaping program. New planters, donated by the BSID, were placed around the AAMCO property and the AAMCO staff will pitch in by watering and weeding the planters throughout the season.

The landscaping and maintenance programs provided by the BSID, were just two of the services noted by new and existing business owners as additional reasons why they chose to locate in Bergenfield's downtown. BSID also provides assistance to commercial property owners and businesses located within the Bergenfield district with grants for façade and sidewalk improvements, sign and awning replacement, rear entrance and parking lot striping and directional signage. As part of an ongoing marketing program designed to promote the district's businesses and restaurants, BSID developed a cooperative advertising program with discounted rates for district business owners that created affordable opportunities to reach consumers through local media outlets.

“Working cooperatively with borough officials and members of our business community, the BSID has focused on the kinds of things that business owners need and want to see in a busy and vibrant commercial environment,” says Walter Johnson, BSID president and owner of Perfect Cut Carpets. “Whether its help with information on zoning regulations, quality of life services, marketing needs or other concerns of prospective business or commercial property owners and investors, we've created an environment that many people are recognizing as welcoming and beneficial to their success.”

Posters in the window at 10 N. Washington Avenue advertising for full and part-time positions at the recently opened Red Ribbon Bake Shop, underscore what many local property owners see as growing momentum in Bergenfield's downtown district as desirable commercial locations are drawing increased interest.

One of those properties, the former Woolworth's building located at the corner of Washington Avenue and Main Street, is now the home of a new leading edge fitness center. TDR Enterprises, with another facility in Spring Valley, New York, counts a Bergenfield native among its partners who opened Fitness II on June 23 rd . Company officials say they were drawn to the building by the collaboration between the property owner, municipal officials and BSID representatives in addition to the unique and high visibility location totaling nearly 20,000 square feet on multiple levels.

Fitness II includes everything from the latest cardio and weight training equipment to tanning beds and separate training spaces for hard core lifters and a women's only area in addition to the main exercise floor featuring 18 flat screens members can tune to their favorite shows and cardiovision program options. There's even a smoothie bar, in the same place as the original Woolworth's lunch counter, which offers pre and post workout refreshment and nutritional supplements to members and the public.

“Don Smartt, director of the BSID, provided the final push, working as a liaison with the municipality to make sure this project happened,” a TDR representative adds. “The support of the borough's elected officials, plus everyone from the engineer, architect, attorney and inspectors contributed to the rebirth of a classic and historic space.”

Bergenfield Councilman Carlos Aguasvivas, who serves as a member of the BSID's board, noted the importance of a vibrant business community in terms of the borough's quality of life. “A healthy downtown means opportunities for business people to reach consumers and create jobs,” said Councilman Aguasvivas. “It also creates an attractive environment for people to shop and dine in our community.”