Listen to this articleThe basics:
- CRDA partners with Moran Foods to open a full-service grocery store
- Project aims to improve food access in Atlantic City‘s downtown
- NJEDA provides nearly $20M for infrastructure and plaza upgrades
- Renovations to expand the market are set for completion by 2026
As part of broader effort to address food security in Atlantic City, the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority is working with the state to bring a full-service grocery store to the downtown area.
In an Oct. 21 news release, the agency announced a long-term lease agreement with Moran Foods to renovate and expand the existing Save A Lot discount food store at Renaissance Plaza into a supermarket with fresh, healthy and affordable options.
By partnering with a premier wholesale grocery distribution company, the CRDA said it will help address longstanding community concerns about food access in the state-designated food desert community.
The CRDA said the store will be expanded from 18,786 square feet to 28,443 square feet to allow for a broader product selection and key upgrades. According to a spokesperson, the estimated completion date is December 2026. He also said the store will remain open during renovations.
Even bigger plans
In addition to transforming the Save A Lot market, the agency said it is spearheading a larger redevelopment of the plaza on Atlantic Avenue into a “safe, modern commercial hub.”
The CRDA acquired Renaissance Plaza last month for $11 million and will “retain ownership of the property to ensure long-term community benefit and sustainable operations,” the agency said.
Infrastructure improvements are being made possible thanks to nearly $20 million in support from the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, according to the CRDA. The scope of work includes a roof replacement, masonry restoration, enhanced security measures and streetscape beautification, the agency said.
According to the CRDA, environmental assessments and comprehensive retail space evaluations are underway. That also encompasses an ongoing review of all tenant mix and use configurations “to optimize community benefit and commercial viability,” the agency said.
Renaissance Plaza in Atlantic City:
Decades-long desert
In a statement, CRDA Chairman Modia Butler said, “Today’s board authorization reflects our commitment to making strategic investments that address real 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. 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.”
In Atlantic City, there hasn’t been a full-fledged grocery store for more than two decades. Residents must either drive off the island or take public transportation to a mainland store or shop in pricey, poorly stocked corner stores in the city.
The CRDA noted other steps it has taken to address food security locally, such as support for mobile fresh food markets and strategic grocery development initiatives.
AC revitalization
Bill Mayo, chief executive officer of Moran Foods, added, “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.”
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.
– Bill Mayo, Moran Foods CEO
NJEDA Deputy Chief Executive Officer Mary Maples said, “Under Governor Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey has taken a whole-of-government approach to support the revitalization of Atlantic City, ensuring a stronger city for its residents. The NJEDA is proud to partner with CRDA to bring an enhanced grocery store to the city, which will expand fresh, healthy food options for families across the city. The transformation of Renaissance Plaza will help combat food insecurity, while driving meaningful economic activity, supporting the long-term growth and revitalization of the city for years to come.”
‘A long time coming’
Gov. Phil Murphy described the partnership as “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,” the governor said. “The collaboration between CRDA and Moran Foods reflects our shared commitment to building a safer, more vibrant, and more equitable Atlantic City.”
Mayor Marty Small Sr. said, “The residents of the Great City of Atlantic City deserve access to fresh and affordable groceries from a store they can be proud of. We have made it a priority under the Small Administration to enhance security and clean up Renaissance Plaza, and I have full faith in the CRDA’s plan to further transform this area. This has been a long time coming, but this is a promise kept — and a powerful step forward for Atlantic City.”
AtlantiCare President and CEO Michael Charlton also reflected on the development, saying, “This milestone marks important progress for Atlantic City and for the people who live here. It shows what steady leadership and collaboration can achieve.”
“Expanding grocery access strengthens families and helps build a healthier, more resilient city. We commend the NJEDA, CRDA, Governor Murphy, and Moran Foods for their partnership and commitment to Atlantic City’s future,” he said.
Editor’s note: This story was updated at 9:32 a.m. EST Oct. 23, 2025, after a CRDA spokesperson shared more information about the square footage of the expansion, a project timeline and the Renaissance Plaza acquisition price.
