An off-track betting facility that wants to set up shop in Gloucester Township is waiting on final approvals from the New Jersey Racing Commission before it can open its doors for what Mayor David Mayer called a "win-win" addition to the township.

Penn National Gaming plans to open the "Favorites" facility, which will allow horse racing fans to bet on 25 different tracks a day in a sports bar atmosphere at the location of the former Stone Grill on Blackwood-Clementon Road.

The commission held a public hearing on the issue in Gloucester Township in June, and is in the midst of reviewing their application for a license.

“It’s still under review and no final decision has been reached by the commission,” said Frank Zanzuccki, executive director of the commission. “It’s progressing.”

The review looks at the financial reliability of the applicant as well as at individuals who are part of the company and combs through other details of the application, he said.

“It’s a pretty comprehensive review,” Zanzuccki said.

Mayor Mayer said that after the public hearing, which heard only positive comments and feedback from residents, he doesn’t expect any issues to stop “Favorites” from getting up and running soon.

“From speaking with Penn National, they felt it was a very good meeting and they don’t anticipate any issues in getting the license,” Mayer said. The mayor added that he's excited to see a new business open up in the empty establishment and spark growth on the struggling Blackwood-Clementon Road corridor.

“Right now, it’s an empty restaurant. Once they get their approvals, they’ll be able to bring new life into that facility and bring people into Gloucester Township,” Mayer said. “They’re going to spend money in our town, which I think will help other businesses, especially around Blackwood-Clementon Road.”

The establishment will feature food, liquor sales and large-screen TVs to watch race tracks. In addition to contributing one percent of its revenues to the township, Favorites would also bring as many as 40 jobs to the township.

“It’s a win-win, literally, for Gloucester Township,” Mayer said.

Contact staff writer Michelle Caffrey at 856-686-3686 or mcaffrey@southjerseymedia.com