By DON STINE
Visitors to historic Ocean Grove can enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides through the scenic Victorian community under an ordinance adopted recently by the Neptune Township Committee.
The committee adopted the ordinance to create a special stop for the carriage rides on Central Avenue, near Ocean Pathway.
I think this will add a nice element of enjoyment for visitors to Ocean Grove, said Mayor Randy Bishop.
Bishop did say, however, that one of his main concerns in the future will be the safety of the carriages and its riders.
I do not want safety compromised, he said.
The ordinance creating the special stop for the carriage rides temporarily removes several parking spaces during the day-time hours. The carriage-ride company is also responsible for collecting and disposing of any horse waste.
The carriage rides will be available beginning June 6 on weekdays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sundays from 12:30 to 10 p.m.
The hours may change depending on weather conditions.
Chantel Semanchik, who lives in Allamuchy but is a Neptune native, will provide the service through her company, Precious Moment Carriage Rides. The company also provides carriage rides in New York Citys Central Park.
The carriage-rides have received the support of the Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association.
Committeewoman Mary Beth Jahn was to sole member of the governing body to vote against the ordinance.
I dont think its fair for the animals. It puts them under stress to be out and about in traffic and it makes them walk on asphalt, she said.
Jahn said the horses are to be stabled at the old North End maintenance building.
This is not an appropriate location to house the horses. The building is structurally unsafe and its a mess. I understand the nostalgic value of the carriage rides, but it shouldnt come at the price of an animal, she said.
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Published every Thursday.
Bravo to Ocean grove for allowing this lovely addition to be available. There is nothing like a horse and carriage ride, they delight everyone, and are a family-oriented attraction (which are few and far between these days).
As for Committeewoman Jahn, she should brush up on her facts and not let her emotions rule her decisions. I’ve had horses and have been riding all my life, and the right horse can get used to traffic with no problem. (And horses that jump fences and race etc put way more stress on their legs than a carriage horse!) Pulling a carriage is not hard work, and these days with so many unwanted horses, I say good for them that they have a place in this world.