What's Happening?
The Cherry Hill Township Planning Board has approved the relocation of a Subaru of Cherry Hill dealership to the former site of Subaru of America’s corporate headquarters. This move signifies a return for Subaru to the land it occupied until 2018, when
its headquarters relocated to Camden. The new dealership will feature a substantial 67,035-square-foot building, encompassing a 21,840-square-foot showroom and a 36,350-square-foot service area. The project, initially approved in 2023, required amended plans to comply with New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection flood-hazard regulations due to the property's proximity to the Cooper River. The site has a rich history, having previously housed the Latin Casino, a prominent entertainment venue, before becoming Subaru's headquarters.
Why It's Important?
This development is important for the local economy of Cherry Hill, New Jersey, as it represents a significant commercial investment and the creation of a new, large-scale automotive dealership. The return of a Subaru presence to its former headquarters site could also be seen as a symbolic gesture, reinforcing the brand's long-standing connection to the area. For the automotive retail sector, the construction of such a large facility indicates confidence in the regional market and a commitment to enhancing the customer experience through modern showrooms and extensive service capabilities. The project's adherence to environmental regulations, particularly regarding flood hazards and the use of drought-resistant, native pollinator garden landscaping, sets a precedent for sustainable commercial development in the region, aligning with Subaru's eco-friendly corporate image and potentially influencing future commercial projects to adopt similar green initiatives.
What's Next?
With the Cherry Hill Township Planning Board's approval, the construction of the new Subaru of Cherry Hill dealership is expected to proceed. The focus will now shift to the physical development of the 67,035-square-foot facility, including the showroom and service areas. The unique landscaping plan, featuring drought-resistant native pollinator gardens that do not require permanent irrigation, will be implemented, reflecting Subaru's corporate landscaping philosophy. This approach, designed by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, will require only temporary watering during the initial planting phase. The completion of this dealership will provide an updated sales and service hub for Subaru customers in the Cherry Hill area, potentially increasing local employment opportunities and contributing to the local tax base. The project's environmental considerations may also serve as a model for future commercial developments in the region.
Beyond the Headlines
The decision to build a new dealership on the former headquarters site, with its emphasis on eco-friendly landscaping, reflects a deeper trend in corporate responsibility and brand identity. Subaru's commitment to drought-resistant plantings and avoiding fertilizers and mowing aligns with its 'Subaru Love Promise' and its broader eco-friendly corporate image. This move goes beyond mere compliance with regulations; it actively integrates environmental stewardship into commercial development. This could influence consumer perception, attracting buyers who prioritize brands with strong environmental ethics. Furthermore, the site's transformation from a historic entertainment venue to a corporate headquarters and now to a modern dealership illustrates the dynamic evolution of land use in suburban areas, adapting to changing economic and social needs while attempting to incorporate contemporary values like sustainability.
