Business inches its way to the finish line of legal paperwork
Although still approximately two years away from opening its doors to residents, the proposed construction of Dave and Buster’s at Gloucester Premium Outlets off Route 42 continues to be a large talking point for township council.
Two big steps were made this past Monday, paving the way for the plot of land the Texas-based chain is set to reportedly build on to be available for their style of business.
A resolution named a redeveloper for the project for the township, as well as finalized a redevelopment agreement between the two, while the second reading of an ordinance was passed that amended a township code for Dave and Buster’s unique style of business to be allowed.
The ordinance allows the creation of an indoor amusement park, so long as it is at least 30,000 square feet of interior space and has more than 125 amusement devices, either coin-operated, skill-based, electronic and more. Additionally, such a Recognized Amusement Park may be operated between the hours of 6 a.m. and 3 a.m., however must be closed to the public between the remaining three hours.
“It allows them to operate that type of business,” said Council President Orlando Mercado. “They’ll be an amusement park that’s open more than 31 days; we don’t have that type of business in Gloucester Township.”
As is stands now, the plan is for Dave and Buster’s to break ground before summer of 2019 in anticipation of an early 2020 opening.
There are still other barriers the company will have to pass before being able to set up shop in town, such as being approved for liquor license, however, plans are moving forward.
“[Dave and Buster’s] came and did a presentation in the second meeting of July, the redevelopment entity,” said Mercado. “That’s basically a concept, telling us about their business, how many people they’re going to employ.”
In other news from the recent council meeting:
· A resolution was passed granting the Gloucester Township Day Scholarship Committee permission to close a portion of the Black Horse Pike within the township for the highly anticipated Gloucester Township Food and Craft Beer Festival. More than 20 food trucks will be along the streets serving food. Additionally, there will a beer garden at Gloucester Township Library with live music and entertainment throughout the streets as well. The festival is from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 9, with all proceeds benefiting the scholarship committee.
· From Aug. 17 to Sept. 3, Gloucester Township is expected to increase its awareness campaign and participation in the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” initiative at the request of the state Division of Highway Traffic Safety to law enforcement across the state. Support was declared in hopes of saving lives and money.
