NORTH WILDWOOD ─ Project manager Joseph Byrne gave a tour of Seaport Pier at the 22nd Avenue Boardwalk May 31.
In spite of four nor’easters, cold temperatures, and “skepticism,” the Pier, complete with pool area and indoor venue, offers a unique experience for the public.
“Overall concept for development is to create a regional and tourist entertainment venue,” Byrne said in 2017 before North Wildwood City Council. With a swim club, restaurant, upscale coffee bar, and bicycle parking, Seaport Pier is designed to “elongate” the tourist season.
North Wildwood will lease the pier to BG Capital with the possibility to purchase after five years, bringing revenue to the city.
Mayor Patrick Rosenello and council support the vision and mission of the Pier.
Families and cyclists on their way to the beach are the Pier’s primary focus. Offering breakfast/brunch, boxed lunches to go, and specialty coffee drinks will offer families an alternative to another day on the hot sand.
Seaport Pier is not designed to “compete” with other Boardwalk attractions, but to offer something different.
A police substation is housed in the previously existing portion of the Pier.
During the tour, Byrne showed the newly poured pool area, surrounded by a deck area.
The 40-by-40-foot pool will feature light-emitting diode (LED) lighting that can change colors. Byrne also said that the pool would be heated.
Byrne praised the city for “leveling” the Pier’s beach area, stretching from 23rd Avenue to a section of 21st Avenue.
Cape May Fitness is providing instructors for daily yoga classes, boot camps, and other activities, he said.
Live Nation will provide the Pier’s entertainment and, according to Byrne, the 2019 lineup is “strong.”
Byrne showed the “take-out” kitchen facing the deck area; epoxy floors and marble counters will reduce the “old bar smell,” according to Byrne. From this area, guests can order take-out items and drinks from the coffee bar.
The massive indoor kitchen will soon receive walk-in freezers/refrigerators; electrical and plumbing is installed.
Walking into the main space, Byrne pointed out the polished concrete floors and said artwork would be installed along the pale blue walls. A mural is also being created.
According to Byrne, the heart of the Pier is designed to be open year-round, meeting energy code requirements.
The restaurant, equipped with a central bar area, can seat from 300 to 600 total. Weddings and other special events can be held in the vast space.
Green Eggs Café, a restaurant with several locations in Philadelphia and Boston, has created a menu for patrons.
When asked if daily passes will be available, Byrne replied that only seasonal passes would be sold in order to promote and maintain a safe, family-friendly atmosphere.
According to city officials, all amplified music must end by 10 p.m. and alcohol service must cease at 1 a.m. in compliance with ordinances.
Everyday this is a different place,” Byrne said, referring to each phase of the project as work is completed.
Byrne obtained his permits in December 2017, a month after the presentation to the city’s Planning Board Nov. 9. Conditions have been met, and Byrne is pleased with the project.
Asked if he feels the project is “on track,” Byrne replied that he does. With weather conditions and what he perceived as “doubts” from locals, in the beginning, Seaport Pier plans to host a grand opening June 24.
“And here we are,” Byrne said with a smile.
To contact Rachel Rogish, email rrogish@cmcherald.com.
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