The Borough of Collingswood has issued a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) seeking developers to submit concept proposals for a mixed-use development of the area along N. Atlantic Avenue surrounding the Collingswood water towers. The approximately 1.8-acre proposed project site is located two blocks from the Collingswood PATCO station and is adjacent to the Borough’s thriving downtown.
The site currently contains a large area of surface parking, the former police department, and the soon-to-be relocated Department of Public Works. The relocation of these uses frees up valuable space for the creation of new homes, expansion of the central business district, and a parking garage-further solidifying the Borough’s transit village designation.
The Borough is searching for redevelopers with extensive experience in urban and suburban redevelopment of mixed-used commercial, retail, residential housing, and structured parking to submit concepts for this transit-oriented development project.
“This is an area we’ve been considering for redevelopment for a long time, and it’s exciting to be at the point where we can begin to see its potential realized,” shared Mayor Jim Maley. “We’d love to see some creative concepts that capitalize on Collingswood’s position as a transit village and build on our reputation as both a destination for shopping and dining and a great place to live.”
Designated as a Transit Village by New Jersey Department of Transportation, Collingswood’s approach to development incorporates the principles of transit-oriented development, emphasizing pedestrian-friendly design, a diverse range of housing options, and a vibrant mix of commercial and retail spaces—all seamlessly connected to the surrounding community.
Studies consistently highlight the benefits of concentrated populations in downtown areas, and Collingswood's dedication to this concept has proven advantageous. For example, the 2021 Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission study on pandemic impacts in downtowns attested to the success of this approach. Collingswood’s downtown emerged with a lower pandemic impact score, attributed to its higher concentrated population, diverse features, walkability, and strategic proximity to public transportation. In essence, Collingswood's commitment to a thriving and connected community is not just a vision but a reality.
Once concepts are submitted, the Borough Commission envisions a process to solicit substantive proposals from a few developers and then engaging in a process for sharing concepts with the public for feedback.
“Some of our most successful projects in town have come to fruition from sharing ideas and receiving input from the community. Once concepts are submitted, we look forward to engaging with the public, sharing these ideas, and including feedback in plans as concepts for the area progress," said Maley.
Responses to the RFQ are due in the office of the Borough of Collingswood on or before March 15 at 3pm. The RFQ is available here.