Remodeling at Manahawkin Kmart

Saker Properties has submitted an application to the Stafford Township Planning Board to remodel the Manahawkin Commons, a center with many empty storefront spaces.

The company bought the lot in December, seeking to remodel the empty Kmart space and nearby buildings with a furnished grocery store and retail stores.

Saker plans to use 120,000 square feet of the lot for the grocery store and the other 18,000 square feet for the retail centers. They have also shared their intentions of remaking an ingress-only driveway at what used to be named West Road to accommodate immediate access from Route 72. A sign program is also in the works to attract attention from prospective consumers.

Their proposal will be heard on November 13. The pre-planning phase of the process requires approvals from the Stafford Township Planning Board and both the Department of Transportation and CAFRA permits.

Saker Properties owns many properties in Ocean and Monmouth counties, including the ShopRite at the Stafford Square Mall.

Prior to Saker’s investment in the center, others have suggested remodeling the Manahawkin Commons to include a Burlington Coat Factory, Old Navy and Ross Dress for Less.

Currently, the Manahawkin Commons holds TJ Maxx, Home Goods, Regal Cinemas 10, Michael’s and Famous Footwear, to name a few.