Downtown West Orange Alliance

The Downtown West Orange Alliance, Inc. is the non-profit organization that manages the town's Special Improvement District (SID). The DWOA was formed in August 1998 through the ordinance that also established the SID. Recognizing the unique contributions made by the residential, historic and commercial properties that collectively form our "downtown," the Township of West Orange created the SID to encourage economic revitalization of the neighborhoods known as Tory Corner, Eagle Rock, St. Mark's and the Valley. Since West Orange is a magnet for new residents, the revitalization of the Downtown area will enhance the community as it continues to experience increased property values in both the consumer and business segments.

The Vision Statement of the DWOA states the Board's ultimate goal for the downtown of West Orange and is as follows:
To create a town center that marries the historic past of West Orange with a future that includes a variety of retail stores, family-oriented as well as upscale restaurants and entertainment facilities, and medium and high rent residences. Downtown will become a magnet for residents of West Orange and the surrounding area who will view it as the place to spend their money and time. As such, downtown West Orange will become a community that will experience increases in property values in both the consumer and business segments.

The Board sets the work plan and goals of the DWOA each year based on current needs of the district. Those plans are coordinated and administered by its Executive Director, Denise Esposito. Ms. Esposito works on a daily basis with local business and property owners on everything from design and leasing assistance to helping with permits or adherance to township codes. The scope of work done by the Executive Director includes: Administration of grant applications, organization of events, recruitment of businesses, redevelopment of the Edison Battery building, downtown maintenance and landscaping, and regular office management. The Board and volunteers assist whenever possible to carry out tasks that continually enhance and improve the downtown district. If you'd like more information about the work of the Downtown West Orange Alliance or would like assistance in any area, please contact us through email at downtown@westorange.org or by phone at

973-325-4109.