Somers Point approves Chick-fil-A and Panera Bread development

The Somers Point Planning Board has approved new plans for the former McNaughton’s Garden Center site at 331 New Road. The board met on Wednesday night to confirm that Chick-fil-A and Panera Bread will be part of a redevelopment project called Defao Plaza. The project will create about 19,000 square feet of retail space. It will also feature 9,500 square feet designated for office or medical facilities. There will be two drive-thru spaces for the Chick-fil-A and Panera restaurants. Chick-fil-A plans to open Monday through Saturday from 6:30 am to 10 pm. The restaurant will have indoor seating for 70 guests and 20 more on an outdoor patio. Panera Bread will operate daily from 6:30 am to 9 pm, providing seating for around 100 people inside and 28 outside. Chick-fil-A is expected to employ about 100 workers, while Panera plans to hire around 15. Construction will start after the existing site is demolished. McNaughton’s Garden Center operated in Somers Point for 25 years before closing.