CRDA to Deliver Full-Service Supermarket to Atlantic City

A substantial redevelopment project is underway in Atlantic City to transform the Renaissance Plaza Supermarket into a long-term, stable grocery store, addressing the city's longstanding issue as a "food desert."

In a recent news release, the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA) said it has entered a long-term lease agreement with Moran Foods to renovate and expand the current Save A Lot discount food store at Renaissance Plaza into a supermarket with healthy, affordable food options.

According to NJBIZ, the store will expand from 18,786 square feet to 28,443 square feet to support a broader product selection and essential upgrades. A spokesperson noted that the estimated completion date for the refurbished store is December 2026. The store will remain open during renovations.

“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,” said Bill Mayo, chief executive officer of Moran Foods, in a statement to NJBIZ. “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.”

Besides refurbishing Save A Lot, CRDA said it would direct a broader redevelopment of the plaza on Atlantic Avenue into a “safe, modern commercial hub.”

The CRDA, which obtained Renaissance Plaza last month for $11 million, will “retain ownership of the property to ensure long-term community benefit and sustainable operations,” the agency said in a statement to NJBIZ.

These infrastructure improvements are made possible through approximately $20 million in support from the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, according to the CRDA. The scope of work for these renovations includes roof replacement, masonry restoration, enhanced security measures, and streetscape enhancements.