The dealership closed in 2009 as part of Chrysler's bankruptcy proceedings
HAMILTON -- After years of sitting vacant, the site of the former Hamilton Chrysler on Route 33 is set to become an Aldi's grocery store and Panera Bread.
Township officials announced on Monday that the planning board last week approved an application by the Northeastern Commercial Properties LLC to redevelop the car dealership.
A year after the neighboring Patterson Chevrolet left for Lawrence in 2008, Hamilton Chrysler closed its doors after 37 years in business. It was one of 800 dealerships nationwide to close as part of the company's plans to emerge from bankruptcy proceedings.
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"Our administration has worked diligently to attract interest and encourage the revitalization of both former car dealerships," Mayor Kelly Yaede said. "We are pleased that this project will help reinvigorate the former Chrysler dealership and complement the ongoing redevelopment of the former Patterson Chevrolet site."
The plans call for the construction of a 17,825-square-foot Aldi grocery store, a 4,317-square-foot Panera Bread with a drive-thru and more than 7,945 square feet of additional retail or service space.
Meanwhile, work continues across the street where a Super Wawa is being built. An AutoZone will then follow.
Cristina Rojas may be reached at crojas@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @CristinaRojasTT. Find NJ.com on Facebook.