Michael La Place Named Executive Director of Downtown Cranford

Cranford has a new leader overseeing its downtown economic development efforts. The Township has appointed Michael La Place as Executive Director of the Office of Downtown Business and Economic Development, placing him at the center of the municipality's retail strategy, business recruitment, and streetscape planning.

Union County Life has been following Cranford's downtown development closely. La Place brings a background that spans community planning, master planning, sustainability, and historic preservation — a combination that reflects the dual pressures many New Jersey downtown districts face: staying economically relevant while protecting the physical environment that defines them.

His prior experience includes serving as director of Downtown Westfield, giving him direct exposure to commercial district management in a Union County town with comparable retail dynamics to Cranford's.

Mayor Kathleen Miller Prunty, who serves as the Township's liaison to the Downtown Management Corporation, spoke to the thinking behind the hire. "We are so fortunate to have Michael on the team," she said, adding that La Place demonstrated both a clear-eyed view of the retail environment and the ability to identify paths forward.

One priority already in motion: a streetscape improvement project for the downtown corridor. La Place steps into the role with that work already on the horizon. Residents and business owners can follow project developments at downtowncranfordstreetscape.com.

The Office of Downtown Business and Economic Development manages the Township's Special Improvement District — roughly 83 acres encompassing more than 300 businesses — and works with the Downtown Management Corporation's advisory board on retail development, beautification, and long-term planning.

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FAQ

What does the Executive Director of Downtown Business and Economic Development do in Cranford?
The Executive Director oversees the Township's Special Improvement District — an 83-acre area covering more than 300 businesses — managing retail development, business recruitment, beautification, and long-term planning in coordination with the Downtown Management Corporation.

Who is Michael La Place?
Michael La Place is Cranford's newly appointed Executive Director of Downtown Business and Economic Development. He brings a background in community planning, master planning, sustainability, and historic preservation, and previously served as director of Downtown Westfield.

What is the Cranford downtown streetscape project?
The Township has a streetscape improvement project in progress for the downtown corridor. Residents and business owners can follow updates and get involved at downtowncranfordstreetscape.com or by emailing streetscape@cranfordnj.org.

Who oversees the Downtown Management Corporation in Cranford?
Mayor Kathleen Miller Prunty serves as the Township's liaison to the Downtown Management Corporation. The DMC includes an 11-member advisory board appointed by the Township Committee, representing property owners, business owners, and residents within the Special Improvement District.

How can I contact the Downtown Cranford office?
Reach Executive Director Michael La Place at m-laplace@cranfordnj.org or (908) 709-7208. The office is located in the Cranford Municipal Building, 8 Springfield Avenue, Room 17.