The complex, to be named Mullica Hill Plaza, would have a total of 18 tenants, according to its general site plan, including a supermarket and McDonald's and Applebee's restaurants. Formal site plans are expected to be filed by mid-May.
The two restaurants are at the center of the controversy over the project. The McDonald's, for example, would include a drive-through window, and drive-throughs have been banned here for the last 25 years. And the Applebee's would need a liquor license, which would require the "dry" township to issue its first liquor license ever.
Township officials generally support the project, which would add a significant ratable to the small but fast-growing township. But Mullica Hill Plaza is said to have significant opposition among local residents and existing businesses.
Besides the variances related to the drive-through and the liquor license, the project would require sewer and utility extensions. Madison Development is currently negotiating to buy a 17-acre site for the project and hopes "to begin construction within the next year to 18 months," according to a company official.
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