Montclair Center Named One of New Jersey's 'Great Places'

Montclair Center, a.k.a. downtown Montclair, has been recognized as a 2013 Great Downtown in New Jersey by the American Planning Association-New Jersey Chapter (APA-NJ).

But we knew that already!

Montclair Center is bookended by the nationally recognized Montclair Art Museum and the historic Lackawanna Plaza Train Station with some of the state’s best restaurants, a mix of boutiques and national retailers, The Wellmont Theater, public art projects, an outdoor stage and much more in between.

The recognition in the Great Downtown category of the Great Places in New Jersey Program follows Church Street being named a Great Street in 2012, the program’s first year.  

“Montclair effectively supports its downtown by leveraging the public and private partnerships and investments needed to attract, retain and grow businesses,” said APA-NJ President Charles Latini, Jr., AICP. “As a result, Montclair Center functions not only as the centerpiece in the everyday life of the Township, but it also enjoys a long-standing reputation for excellence that extends well beyond its borders.”

As one of northern New Jersey’s first suburbs, Montclair was designed at a time when walking was the primary way of getting around and community was a core value, said Luther Flurry, Executive Director of the Montclair Center Business Improvement District.

“Planning, community pride and historic preservation have allowed Montclair Center to retain these traits into the 21st century,” Flurry said. “Our blend of tradition and modernity in a beautiful, convenient setting, combined with our wealth of activities, amenities and attractions draw residents, businesses and visitors and make Montclair Center a Great Downtown.”  

The AICP also recognized downtown Freehold and downtown Westfield, as well as two Great Public Spaces, the South Hoboken Waterfront in Hoboken and the Cooper River Park in Camden County.

What do you love about Montclair Center? Tell us in the comments.