Message from Mayor Josh Losardo | November 14, 2025
Scotch Plains is a community rooted in tradition, pride and a shared sense of belonging.
We are also a town looking confidently toward the future – one that values smart growth, sustainability and a vibrant local economy.
Over the past few years, we have made deliberate choices to strengthen our business corridors by adopting pro-growth zoning and planning changes, creating new opportunities for small businesses and fulfilling our state-required affordable housing obligations in a way that maintains the integrity and charm of our residential neighborhoods.
Any redevelopment should enhance the heart of Scotch Plains without changing its soul and should be based on sound, smart planning. By concentrating new housing and mixed-use projects in and around business corridors, we’re strengthening the vibrancy of our core downtown area while protecting and preserving the character of our residential neighborhoods.
This deliberate strategy ensures that future growth will make Scotch Plains stronger, more connected, and more welcoming for generations to come.
A prime example can be seen on East Second Street.
In August 2024, Township officials joined local developer Elite Properties in breaking ground on a new mixed-use development at 1776 East Second Street, the result of a redevelopment plan adopted by the Township Council two years earlier envisioned to jump-start the revitalization of East Second Street.
This three-story project will include 40 residential units, six of which are designated as affordable, and more than 2,100 square feet of commercial space that will invite new shops and businesses to our downtown. The plan also includes 67 interior parking spaces, modern amenities such as an interior courtyard and outdoor terraces, and an enhanced streetscape design that will improve the pedestrian experience along East Second Street. The project is expected to be completed by the end of the year.
Another exciting development is taking shape on Front Street, behind the Stage House Tavern, where construction is underway on a three-story residential building with 42 units, nine of which are reserved for affordable housing. This project will also encourage more foot traffic within our downtown, further supporting our local merchants and restaurants. The project is expected to be completed by the summer of 2026.
Finally, in June 2025, we reached another milestone when Lidl, the international grocery chain, committed to an updated timeline to construct a new supermarket on the site once occupied by Snuffy’s.
The Township Council negotiated an amended Redevelopment Agreement requiring Lidl to complete construction of the Lidl building by December 31, 2026. Lidl started site work on the property on October 1. Building permits are in place, marking the beginning of a long-anticipated project that will bring more fresh food options and job opportunities for our residents.
Together, these downtown projects represent more than just buildings - they reflect thoughtful planning, high quality architectural styles, community investment, and a shared desire to keep Scotch Plains moving forward while staying true to who we are.
Our downtown revitalization plan is not about change for change’s sake; it’s about progress with purpose, rooted in respect for our past and optimism for our future. It is also a careful balancing act, focusing development in commercial areas to enhance commerce, while maintaining the strong residential character of our well-established neighborhoods.
