The Somerville Business & Professional Association is a private, non-profit voluntary membership organization comprised of business owners representatives, professionals, individuals and community groups whose primary goal is to make Somerville a better place for the public and it’s members to conduct business. The association activities heighten the awareness of the public regarding the variety of shopping; dining and business opportunities available in Somerville.
The association was founded in the late 1970’s to serve the needs of the downtown shopping district. In 1981 the association was registered as a non profit organization.
Funded by member dues, promotional revenues and contributions, the SBPA membership pool their knowledge and experience for the purpose of advocating a positive business environment within the township of Somerville.
By monitoring the trends, operation and interaction of the business community and local government, the association provides its members with the timely and accurate information they need to plan for success.
The association provides support resources to new businesses and promotes cooperation and coordination of all businesses to maintain a safe and healthy business climate and to create community consciousness.
Membership in the association is open to all businesses, professionals, community groups and individuals within the borough, as well as other organizations outside Somerville, who subscribe to the association’s purpose and objectives.
What we are…
The work of the Association involves but is not limited to the following:
Work with the government infrastructure to create an environment that is friendly to businesses, patrons and visitors.
The SBPA sponsors many promotions throughout the year. In addition there are other events, such as the Summer Concert Series, St Patrick’s Day Parade, The Jazz festival, Tour of Somerville bicycle race, Classic Cruisers, etc that are sponsored by other groups that are supported by the SBPA
The Association maintains it’s presence of the business community at the local government level by participating in the public meetings of the following:
• Somerville Borough Council
• Downtown Somerville Alliance
• Planning Board
• Board of adjustment
• Architectural Review Board
• Parking & Traffic Committee
• Redevelopment agency
The Association maintains affiliation with the Somerset County Business partnership. Daily operations of the Association are carried out by a paid associate director, under the guidance of the Board of Directors which is elected each year by the membership.
What we do…
The SBPA sponsors and operates the following events:
• Annual Dinner Meeting
• Networking Events
• Spring Spectacular Street Fair
• Arts on Main Street Fair
• Treasure Hunt
• Halloween Trick or Treat
• Holiday Festivities
• Photos with Santa
• Carriage Rides
• Ice Carving
• Main Street Caroling