As we continue along the process to explore redevelopment of the parking lots at the Speedline station, we've reached another milestone. Over the last year, the Borough and the DRPA issued "Requests for Qualifications" where we asked firms interested in the project to submit their team's qualifications. We received 15 responses. From that list, we selected 6 firms to provide conceptual proposals. Originally, responses were due in March but we had several meetings and discussions with the 6 firms and decided to delay the proposals because of the economy.

     We have now received 4 responses from the 6 firms eligible to respond. All of these numbers are great news for Collingswood. The strength of this community as a place for investment, even in these economic times, is a strong indicator of our commercial value. We are retaining value at a good pace and significant businesses are willing to commit substantial investment in our continuing growth.

     The 4 responses should be viewed from the perspective of the strength of the creativity and ideas for creating a new neighborhood that blends into the fabric of our town. Don't pay attention to the height, or number of units or the drawings of what the developments would look like - they will be the subject of change based on discussions with the Borough, meetings with our citizens and the market conditions as we move along in the planning process. Instead, pay attention to the thought process, the strength and experience of the team and the likelihood they will create a project that will be successful and beneficial to our community.

     We will be reviewing the proposals with the DRPA and selecting a redeveloper in due course - hopefully before the holidays. This may not be the best time to build a new project, but most developers I know believe it is a great time to plan a new project. The economy is showing signs of rebound and we want to be ready to act in a way that benefits our town.