The Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA) has finalized a long-term lease agreement with Moran Foods to operate and upgrade a grocery store at Renaissance Plaza in Atlantic City. The move is part of a broader effort to improve access to groceries and modernize the downtown shopping center.
Nearly $20 million from the New Jersey Economic Development Authority has been invested in infrastructure improvements at Renaissance Plaza. These enhancements include roof replacement, masonry restoration, upgraded security, and streetscape beautification. The goal is to transform the area into a safer and more modern commercial hub for residents.
Governor Phil Murphy commented on the development, stating, “This partnership marks a major step forward in revitalizing Atlantic City’s downtown core. By investing in essential infrastructure and expanding access to fresh, affordable food, we’re strengthening the foundation of this community and ensuring that residents benefit directly from the city’s growth.”
Modia Butler, Chairman of the CRDA, emphasized the importance of meeting community needs. “Renaissance Plaza serves families who depend on convenient grocery access, and we carefully evaluated this opportunity to ensure long-term value for residents,” Butler said. “With Governor Murphy’s support, NJEDA’s funding, and Moran Foods’ expertise, we’re not just preserving a grocery store, we are anchoring a neighborhood.”
Moran Foods is undertaking a full renovation and expansion of the store at 1501 Atlantic Avenue, currently home to a Save-A-Lot discount food store. Bill Mayo, Chief Executive Officer of Moran Foods, said, “We know how important it is to preserve access to fresh, affordable foods to Atlantic City residents, and we are excited to make a deeper commitment by working with the CRDA to improve the shopping experience in this store. We believe in the potential of this community and store and see real opportunity to better serve local families with high-quality groceries at a great value.”
The CRDA will continue to own the property to maintain long-term community benefits and ensure sustainable operations. Environmental assessments and retail space evaluations are ongoing as part of efforts to optimize both community benefit and commercial viability.
This acquisition is in line with the CRDA’s ongoing work to address food security in Atlantic City. The authority has previously supported mobile fresh food markets and other grocery development initiatives throughout the city.
