Main Street has undergone a myriad of changes over the last several years, including the closing of popular spots Kildare’s and S.A.S. Cupcakes.
That turnover is tied to a trend of high rent prices for the attractive Main Street storefronts. Those prices may continue to ascend as the adjacent Newark Shopping Center continues to improve, such as the reopening of the recently closed movie theater in July.
Cha Grice, of Newark, said the one thing she misses most about the shopping center is the Blue Hen Bowling Alley, which has been replaced by a 220-unit apartment building opening next year.
The reinvention of the shopping center began in earnest in 2012 after Atlantic Realty bought the land, and has included aesthetic touch-ups like this new walkway.
Sam Malusa said he thinks the new look of the shopping center along with some new businesses and housing will make the location much more attractive for students, but that residents will flock to the center as well.
“You’re going to see a lot more competition,” Malusa said. “But it’s for students and others too. I think there’s a Brazilian steakhouse coming in, I don’t see a lot of students going there.”
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