The $20 Million Transformation: 7 Shocking Changes At Blue Star Shopping Center NJ That Just Finished
The Blue Star Shopping Center, often still referred to by locals as the Blue Star Mall, has undergone a monumental, multimillion-dollar transformation that has entirely reshaped the retail landscape of Watchung, New Jersey. As of December 25, 2025, this historic shopping destination is no longer the center residents remember, having completed a massive redevelopment effort that introduced major new anchors, updated infrastructure, and a completely revitalized consumer experience. This deep dive uncovers the dramatic changes, the new tenants, and the historical significance of this Somerset County landmark located right off the bustling US 22 corridor.
The extensive project, spearheaded by Levin Management Corporation (LMC), has breathed new life into the over 400,000-square-foot facility, cementing its status as a premier regional retail hub. The focus was on creating a modern, convenient, and diversified shopping center, moving away from the traditional "mall" concept to a contemporary, open-air shopping center design. The completion of key phases in late 2025 marks a new era for this historic property, offering residents and commuters a wealth of new options for shopping, dining, and services.
The Complete Biography of Blue Star Shopping Center: A Watchung Landmark
The Blue Star Shopping Center is far more than just a collection of stores; it is a piece of New Jersey history. Its name is tied to a significant national program, giving it a unique heritage that few other shopping centers can claim.
- Official Name: Blue Star Shopping Center
- Location: 1701 US 22, Watchung, New Jersey 07069 (Somerset County)
- Original Opening Year: 1954
- Namesake: The center was named after the Blue Star Memorial Highway program, which honors the men and women who served in the U.S. Armed Forces. The center is located along a portion of the historic Route 22 that was part of this program.
- Original Size: Approximately 419,935 to 420,000 square feet (SF)
- Owner/Manager: Levin Management Corporation (LMC)
- Current Status: Fully revitalized following a multimillion-dollar, multi-phase redevelopment project completed between 2023 and 2025.
- Key Role: Serves as a major retail destination for the communities of Watchung, Scotch Plains, Plainfield, and surrounding areas.
The Multimillion-Dollar Redevelopment: What’s New and Operational in 2025
The massive investment into the Blue Star Shopping Center was strategically focused on attracting high-traffic anchor tenants and modernizing the entire facility to meet contemporary consumer demands. The project was broken down into distinct phases, with the most impactful changes now fully realized and operational as of late 2025. This overhaul has completely changed the shopping experience, providing a fresh, vibrant atmosphere.
1. The Grand Opening of the New ShopRite Superstore
One of the most anticipated elements of the redevelopment was the construction of a brand-new, state-of-the-art ShopRite supermarket. The project involved building a new 72,000-square-foot facility while the existing store remained open, minimizing disruption to shoppers. With an estimated completion of June 2025, the new ShopRite is now fully operational, serving as the primary anchor and a major draw to the shopping center. This new location features modern amenities, an expanded selection, and a contemporary design, significantly enhancing the center's grocery offerings.
2. New Retail Giants Arrive: Burlington and Marshalls
The redevelopment successfully secured several major national retailers, dramatically increasing the center's fashion and home goods appeal. Burlington was a key component of the Phase I redevelopment, offering its popular off-price apparel and home furnishings. Furthermore, the center secured a lease with Marshalls, another major off-price department store. The addition of these two giants has created a powerful retail synergy, drawing customers from a wider radius and boosting the center's overall foot traffic.
3. Expanded Dining and Fast-Casual Options
The revitalization wasn't limited to just retail. New dining options were crucial to creating a true destination. The arrival of Taco Bell provides a popular and convenient fast-casual option for shoppers and commuters along Route 22. This focus on quick, accessible dining is a modern trend in shopping center design, ensuring visitors can easily grab a bite during their errands.
4. Phase I Completion: Five Below and Service Upgrades
The initial phase of the redevelopment, which was completed first, brought in several key tenants that cater to a broad demographic. Five Below, a popular value retailer, offers trendy and affordable products, attracting families and younger shoppers. In addition, a new Nail Salon was part of the Phase I completion, adding a crucial personal service component to the tenant mix, allowing customers to bundle errands and self-care in one trip.
Why the Blue Star Shopping Center is Now a Top NJ Retail Destination
The transformation of the Blue Star Shopping Center is a case study in successful retail revitalization. By securing a diverse and high-quality roster of new tenants, the center has future-proofed its position in the competitive Central New Jersey market. The strategic location on US Highway 22—a major artery connecting various parts of Somerset, Union, and Middlesex Counties—ensures high visibility and easy access for thousands of daily drivers.
A Focus on Topical Authority and Diverse Offerings
The center’s management, Levin Management Group, has been aggressive in its leasing strategy, securing over 62,200 square feet of new leasing activity in 2025 alone. This continuous influx of new businesses, including the major deals with Burlington, Marshalls, and Taco Bell, demonstrates strong market confidence in the center's future. The mix of tenants now includes a powerful blend of grocery (ShopRite), discount retail (Burlington, Marshalls, Five Below), quick-service dining (Taco Bell), and personal services (Nail Salon), ensuring the center meets nearly every consumer need.
The inclusion of multiple off-price retailers is a deliberate strategy to attract value-conscious shoppers, a key demographic in the current economic climate. This variety of offerings transforms the center from a simple collection of stores into a true community hub and a comprehensive retail destination for the entire region. The sheer size of the center, at over 400,000 square feet, allows for this diverse and expansive tenant mix, making it a one-stop-shop for everything from weekly groceries to home goods and apparel.
The Legacy of the Blue Star Memorial Highway
It is important to remember the historical context that gives the center its name. The Blue Star Memorial Highway designation honors the nation's military, a legacy that grounds the modern shopping center in a sense of history and community pride. Built in 1954, the center has been a fixture in Watchung for over seven decades. The recent redevelopment ensures that this historic location will continue to serve the community for decades to come, blending its rich past with a modern, amenity-rich future.
The completion of the major construction phases, including the new 72,000 SF ShopRite and the full integration of tenants like Burlington and Marshalls, means the Blue Star Shopping Center is now operating at its peak potential. Shoppers can expect a significantly improved experience, with better parking, enhanced aesthetics, and a superior selection of stores. This transformation solidifies the Blue Star Shopping Center as a must-visit retail location in Central New Jersey, driving economic activity and serving as a modern, convenient shopping center for Somerset County residents and beyond.
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