An Ocean County strip mall that was nearly left for dead a decade ago finally got its long-awaited Italian market that was promised.

The family-run Livoti's Old World Market expansion into Ocean County is expected to bring a big economic boost to the region. Customers lined up outside on Thursday as it opened.

It's been 10 years since a supermarket - or anything - occupied the 30,000-square-foot space, formerly known as the Brick Pathmark. With all the fanfare, Livoti's opened its fifth store, the first outside Monmouth County.

"Absolutely important. We always had to depend on ShopRite and the other local stores but this is so close to me and I hate dealing with Route 70, so this is great," said Leslie Farr, of Brick.

Just a few years ago the plaza was nearly abandoned. Today it's packed with new stores still to come. Shop owners say they're glad they stuck it out.

"It's going to bring in a lot of foot traffic, bring more people to the parking lot," said barbershop owner Chris Carbone.

Carbone moved his barbershop to the strip five years ago. He says six stores have moved in since, including Livoti's.

"Brick is trying to bring in as many people as possible. They got a program going. Fill in the old spots before we build anything new spots. I waited five years Hopefully, it all works out," he said.

"This has been totally revitalized and we are so happy for stores here in the strip mall and even across the way within the strip that are opening as well," said Brick Township Mayor Lisa Crate.

But the main focus of the opening includes the Italian specialties, the favorites, the spirits, the more than 140 employees and all the new customers.