Redeveloped Princeton Shopping Center reports full occupancy, new retailers and expanded events
Loading...
Summary
Developer Edens told council the shopping center redevelopment is complete and operating; 18 new retailers opened, programming and public art were added, and Fitness Factory was announced as a future anchor. Council members praised the project’s role in restoring foot traffic and neighborhood amenities.
Edens representative Ryan Lemming told the Oct. 27 Mayor and Council meeting that redevelopment of the Princeton Shopping Center is complete and that the center has transitioned from high vacancy to full or near‑full occupancy.
Lemming said work began in 2021 and the project reached completion in late 2024, with Avalon opening early in 2025. “When we started this process … it was a low point, about 20% vacancy,” he said, and reported that the center has since filled previously vacant space with 18 new retailers, including Kids United, Lacrosse Unlimited, Innovative Physical Therapy, Princeton Family Adventure Center, OHM Fitness, 30 Burgers and Hudson Table (a cooking/event concept). He also announced Fitness Factory will occupy a former anchor and aims to open in mid‑ to late‑2026.
Councilmembers and staff credited surrounding residential development and the project’s activation strategy for driving foot traffic and restoring the center as a community gathering place. “It drives foot traffic. It's a built‑in consumer,” Lemming said, explaining how adjacent housing supported new retail leasing.
Council members noted programmatic additions: summer concerts moved to Friday nights, Triumph Brewing activated the Clock Tower area, and new public art and murals (seven to eight, depending on counting) enliven the site. Recreation and planning staff pointed to improved community connectivity and events that have brought diverse groups to the center.
Councilmembers also requested small operational adjustments: checking planter placement near bike racks so both can be used, and continued attention to maintaining a retail mix that serves local residents.
Next steps: Edens will proceed with permitting for the Fitness Factory and continue programming work with the town and arts partners. Council members encouraged continued collaboration on transit, parking and public‑realm details.
