Games, Hotels, and Boardwalks all part of Pier Village 3rd Phase

Soon, when you vist the Pier Village in Long Branch, you may be able to "be a kid again". A family-friendly carousel and other amusements are now a part of the oceanfront redevelopment project in Long Branch, NJ. Developers recently announced their vision for the Pier Village - 3rd phase - to the City Counsel.

Already in the works at Pier Village is a mini-golf course, due to be completed some time next year. It will be bounded by Ocean Avenue to the east, Laird Avenue to the North, Melrose Terrace to the south, and Landmark Place to the west.

This new redevelopment, 3rd phase, proposal is all about family and family-fun activities. According to David Barry, one of the developers of this newest phase says, that the 45,000 square feet of retail space "would include ‘uses that expand enjoyment for children and young people.'"

Between the retail and a 72-unit hotel - bigger than the 24-unit Bungalow that anchors the development's second phase - some 500 jobs could be created, stated Russo, another one of the developers on the project.

Also included in the plans for Pier Village's 3rd phase include the reconstruction and expansion of the city's boardwalk between Melrose Terrace and Morris Avenue, where another handicapped access ramp to the beach likely would be located.

The plan should expand the boardwalk to a 20 foot width and the comfort station on the boardwalk at Morris Avenue would be rebuilt and relocated to the middle of the block to give an unobstructed view of the ocean vistas.

The residential and retail spots will be built into four structures on 7-acres bounded by Melrose on the north, Morris on the south, Ocean Avenue on the east, and Ocean Boulevard on the west.

As of now, the developers are being asked if they see any problems with financing before they get the final approval from the City's Planning Board. They say the financing will be available. The real question is, what will the terms be?

"It is really a family aspect, with both indoor and outdoor recreation." Let's hope that the approval needed is granted and the Long Branch Pier Village 3rd Phase Redevelopment project can get underway!