An interview with Merchantville Mayor Patrick J. Brennan

FRANK HALPERIN, Courier-Post
Friday, December 23, 2005

Q: What distinguishes Merchantville from other South Jersey towns?

A: It's a real neighborly community. I've lived here for 22 years, and people here truly care about the people next door, down the block and those whom they may run into around town.

Q: As a longtime resident, do you believe it's dramatically changed?
A: I feel that over the years we have expanded and created a stronger downtown area, but it's funny, the nicest thing about Merchantville is that it hasn't changed much over the years. This is still a town where you have 1,000 parents watching the kids -- parents not only look after their own but also those in the neighborhood.

Q: What does the near future hold for Merchantville?

A: We are in the midst of a major renovation project called Town Centre East, which we hope will significantly revitalize Merchantville. Its projected cost is $23 million to $25 million, involving 20,000 square feet of new retail space in the center of town, along with a parking garage that will accommodate a couple hundred spaces, and the development of 90 new condominium units. We hope to complete it in August 2006, and I'm very excited about it. It's the right thing for the community.

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