NORTH WILDWOOD ─ Local, regional, and national draw compose the scope of BG Capital’s plan for the city’s Seaport Pier. Located on the Boardwalk at 22nd Avenue, Seaport Pier has been vacant, a phantom shape of wood and concrete amid Boardwalk spectacles; however, if the plan passes the city Planning Board, life will resurrect at Seaport, offering resort-style amenities.
“Overall concept for development is to create a regional and tourist entertainment venue,” explained project manager Joseph Byrne. Byrne, of Philadelphia-based JB Richards Construction LLC, emphasized the unique value the venue will bring to North Wildwood.
With a swim club, restaurant, upscale coffee bar, and bike parking, Seaport Pier is designed to “elongate” the tourist season.
“We could be open 24/7, 365,” Byrne added. Insulation, required by law and state standards, will meet requirements as well as actual construction.
According to Byrne, the team creating the destination is comprised of an interior designer and architect, Peter Porretta from Lighthouse Architecture, committed to the project. Byrne stressed the fact of offering activities different from, and not competing with, retail vendors and other amusement piers along the boards.
“We see the demand for a public pool,” said Byrne. According to Byrne, nothing like that public concept exists along the Jersey Shore.
Who is the target audience of the swim club? “Grabbing” families and cyclists on their way to the beach will be the pier’s primary focus.
Offering breakfast/brunch, boxed lunches to go, and specialty coffee drinks such as iced-coffees and lattés, will present families an alternative to another day on the sand.
As the sun sets over North Wildwood, the restaurant venue will provide dinner and a place for concert goers. Alcohol will be available.
In response to questions posed by Councilwoman Margaret “Peggy” Bishop, Byrne responded, “Unfortunately, we can’t get the big names (performers) without it (alcohol).”
Targeting the 21-39 age demographic for concerts is a goal. BG Capital is trying to obtain the former Woody’s liquor license while a state Alcoholic Beverage Control investigation is performed.
A separate menu will be provided poolside served by Green Eggs Café, a trendy restaurant with several locations in Philadelphia and Boston.
According to Mayor Patrick Rosenello, Green Eggs Café made contact with North Wildwood palates at Keenan’s Irish Pub. Rosenello described the reviews as “unbelievable” and the food and presentation as “white-gloved.”
“It’s like a resort hotel without a hotel,” said Rosenello.
Councilman Edwin Koehler commented that the city is “interested” and “the fish is on the line.” However, the council will need time to digest the plan and await Planning Board’s approval.
When asked concerning the timeline, Byrne hopes to begin construction in early 2018 and open in May 2018, based upon Planning Board’s approval.
A public hearing will be announced when BG Capital is to appear and make a formal presentation to the Planning Board.
Rosenello concurred, adding that neighbors will be informed of the meeting.
To contact Rachel Rogish, email rrogish@cmcherald.com.
Cape May – Governor Murphy says he doesn't know anything about the drones and doesn't know what they are doing but he does know that they are not dangerous. Does anyone feel better now?
