Sydney Kaul

Bernardsville’s Bagel Bin announces official closing of business in November of 2022.

For the past 30 years, Bagel Bin has been a staple in Olcott square. Now, however, because of “downtown revitalization” Bagel Bin has officially closed its doors to the Bernardsville community. 

On November 27, the owners, Sari and David, posted the official announcement on Facebook, which received a tremendous amount of feedback. They stated, “As you are aware, Bagel Bin has been through a very challenging year. We have tried to hold on as long as we could, but after 30 wonderful years we have been forced to close our doors forever.”

They continued, “As our loyal customers, you stood by our side as we fought for what we knew and believed was right for the community and our future… Thank you for supporting our small business for the last 30 years.”

Members of the community discussed their devastation, as well as proposed solutions; Some suggested other local buildings for the owners to lease, all in hopes of not having to say goodbye to Bagel Bin for good. 

Customers continuously raved about not only the delicious bagels, but also about the welcoming and friendly staff. With over forty comments responding to the announcements, several people shared their devastation upon hearing the news and memories they have shared over the years with the Bagel Bin staff. 

The plans for the “revitalization” of downtown Bernardsville have been ongoing for several years, including planning to turn the Palmer Building, that housed Bagel Bin, into residential living space. 

When news of Bagel Bin’s possible closure first spread in the beginning of 2022, Mayor Mary Jane Canose clarified the situation in response to a Facebook post: “Right now the approved redevelopment area is the Quimby Lane area. Advance Realty has been named as the redeveloper for that project. The Palmer building project is being investigated to see if it qualifies as an area of need of redevelopment (as defined by state law).” 

These plans for affordable living are in accordance with New Jersey’s Local Redevelopment and Housing Law (the “LRHL”). 

As explained in the May 12th Planning Board meeting, found on “Borough of Bernardsville,” the law “Empowers local governments to initiate a process by which designated properties that meet certain statutory criteria can be transformed to advance the public interest. Once an area is designated “in need of redevelopment” in accordance with statutory criteria, municipalities may adopt redevelopment plans and employ several planning and financial tools to make redevelopment projects more feasible to remove deleterious conditions.” 

Additionally, “A redevelopment designation may also qualify projects in the redevelopment area for financial subsidies or other incentive programs offered by the State of New Jersey.”

For the past three decades Bagel Bin has not only been a successful business, but the owners and staff have welcomed customers with open arms and have been vital members of Bernardsville. The community as a whole is sad to have to say goodbye, but has hope that this will not be permanent.