What are the details of the redevelopment plan?
Since acquiring the former Sanofi campus in 2013 after it was vacated by the healthcare company, Advance Realty has reenergized the property by creating a leading-edge research and development environment that has attracted some of the world’s most innovative companies, including Nestle Health Science, Ashland and Kashiv. The proposed redevelopment of 62 acres of unutilized land will create a dynamic mixed-use environment that complements the nearby research and development facilities with 400 multifamily units, a 124-room executive-class hotel, and 243,834 square feet of commercial space.
The plan sets aside 40 residential units for low- and moderate-income housing, helping Bridgewater meet its legally mandated affordable housing obligation.
How would this development improve traffic flow in the area
A traffic impact study assessing the flow of vehicles that will result from the redevelopment of the underutilized land adjacent to the Center of Excellence, as well as other nearby development projects, found potential for vastly improved traffic flow along nearby roads. The redevelopment plan proposes substantial traffic improvements surrounding the project, and an application for the following offsite highway improvements has been submitted to the New Jersey Department of Transportation:
- The widening of Route 202/206 to provide the project's southbound approach with an exclusive through lane and a shared through/right-turn lane.
- The addition of a traffic signals at the intersections of Route 202/206 and Foothill Road, and Route 202/206 and 4th Street.
What would the development mean for the school system?
Bridgewater Township, including the Bridgewater Raritan High School, educates approximately 8,500 students. It’s estimated the redevelopment will add 54 children to the Bridgewater Township public school system, equating to a half-percent increase in enrollment. (Figure based on Center for Urban Policy Research at Rutgers University, Who Lives in New Jersey Housing? Updated New Jersey Demograhic Multipliers, 2018)
How would the development impact local taxes or services?
The project will bring an annual tax revenue to the township of approximately $3.5 million.
Does the redevelopment pose any environmental risks?
No. An integral part of the redevelopment process is ensuring that the site is completely safe for current and future generations of Bridgewater residents and workers. As detailed in an environmental impact statement, the 62-acre site for which we are seeking municipal approval to create a pedestrian-friendly town center meets all NJDEP requirements for redevelopment.
What is the public process for approving the plan?
In 2016, Bridgewater Township Council approved an ordinance, on recommendation of the Township planning board, to create a redevelopment plan for the site. Subsequently, Advance Realty filed its application for site plan approval, which is currently under review by the Planning Board.
Who is Advance Realty Investors?
Among the most reputable and successful real estate development and investment firms in New Jersey, Advance Realty is headquartered in Bedminster, and has its roots in Somerset County. For more than 40 years, the company has improved the quality of life for residents by taking an innovative and forward-thinking approach to meeting the region’s real estate needs. A recipient of the Somerset County Business Partnership’s Economic Vitality Award, Advance has worked closely with the community to deliver some of the area’s most thoughtfully designed and successful real estate projects, including the Phillips-Van Heusen corporate offices in Bridgewater; Center Point office buildings on Route 22 in Bridgewater; Middlebrook Crossroads, an 18-building industrial complex in Bridgewater; Middlebrook Center, a Shoprite-anchored retail center in Bound Brook; as well as a portfolio of Class A office properties throughout Bedminster.