Astonishing business growth through urban investment

For the past 10 years, the city has worked with the Brigantine Chamber of Commerce to grow the island’s local economy and help small business owners succeed, Mayor Vince Serra said.

In addition to hosting and co-hosting events with the Chamber of Commerce to help attract businesses, the city has invested more than $2.7 million in streetscape improvements to the business district.

“We knew that if the city committed to making significant improvements and investments, business owners would do the same. Many owners now spend large sums of money to improve and beautify their businesses. We see them making investments,” Serra said. “As a result of the efforts of both the City and the Chamber of Commerce, the number of new businesses opening on the Island has steadily increased in recent years.”

Deputy City Manager Ryan Hurst said the city doesn’t have one way to track businesses.

“Our Chamber of Commerce plays a vital role in connecting businesses, defending their interests, and fostering collaboration. Through networking events, educational workshops, and advocacy efforts, we We strive to empower our members and promote their success. We maintain ongoing communication with local and state organizations to advocate for business advocacy and actively participate in relevant discussions. ” said Chamber of Commerce President Maria Sacco Handle.

The chamber has 168 members.

“The town’s existing businesses seem to be revitalizing overall. Many have updated their stores by adding things like awnings, landscaping, and outdoor seating areas. We’ve grown so much that we’ve moved to a bigger location and expanded,” said Chamber of Commerce Secretary Barbara Rothe. “For the first time in years, there are more business owners looking for rental space than available properties.”

Rote said several new stores have opened on the island in the past few months.

and Sandy Jack’s Deli, which serves British and Irish specialties. Brigantine Pet Supply; Ora Kai Functional Fitness, one of two gyms on the island; And The Teal Tail just held its grand opening in April at its new 1001 W. Brigantine Ave. location.

“Business so far has been amazing,” said Andy Gay, social media manager for Brigantine Pet Supply. “As we are a very new business, we are not yet familiar with the unique challenges of operating a business in a beach town. We hope to see a lot of support and business as well as a successful summer season.”

Gay’s parents, Dawn and Andy Gay, said they were inspired to open the pet store because there was no place to buy pet food or supplies on Brigantine Island.

“I still have so much fun meeting so many new faces every day, but I already have a few regulars that I’m so grateful for and love getting to know. I see customers coming into the store with their dogs. I love meeting them and seeing them pick out toys and treats,” Gay said.

Christina Perri, who co-owns Ola Kai with her husband Jimmy, said business has been great since Ola Kai opened last July. The business has 85 of her full-time members, and that number is expected to grow over the summer.

“We actually exceeded our goal for the first year and now we’re getting ready for the summer,” Perry said. “I grew up on this island where my father was in business, so it’s been really fun to see the commercial side of the island really come to life, as the island’s population increases in the summer and winter. , we thought it was a good time to start a business and we could have two gyms on the island.”

Serra said the city is investing and redeveloping areas in three major business districts: the Central Business District, the Lighthouse District, and the Acme Plaza area off Brigantine Boulevard. He said he is actively pursuing grants to help fund the project.

Serra said the Central Business District was the first to receive a $758,448 streetscape grant in 2015 for decorative lighting, crosswalks, planter boxes, benches, bike lanes and bike racks. It is said to be a district. That construction was completed in 2016.

The city then invested $814,000 in the area along West Brigantine Avenue between 31st and 34th Streets, with completion expected in 2022.

With the help of a $1.2 million grant awarded by the New Jersey Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration to promote alternative transportation options, the city will create a Lighthouse District designed to beautify the area and promote walkability. is about to complete its streetscape project.

“We have made major investments in all of our business districts and worked closely with the Brigantine Chamber of Commerce to build a shoulder season,” Serra said.

He also noted that the Economic Development Committee, chaired by City Councilor Mike Riordan, is working hard to develop new and exciting ideas to boost the local economy.

“We remain committed to fostering a business-friendly environment that fosters innovation, growth and sustainability,” said Sacco Handle of the chamber. “Together, we will shape Brigantine’s future as a vibrant hub of commerce and opportunity.”