By JOANNE L. PAPAIANNI
The $600,000 makeover of the Asbury Park bandshell on the boardwalk was discussed at this week’s Asbury Park City Council meeting.
Madison Marquette, the boardwalk redeveloper, plans to make the bandshell a year round venue.
“We want to maximize its use in all seasons,” said Architect Bill Miller of Madison Marquette.
Miller and Structural Engineer Phil Moss presented renderings of the renovations, which include seating for 200 in front of the stage and bandshell, a rooftop dance floor and a new facade for the building.
The adjacent restaurant will have sliding glass doors, that can be opened in warm weather.
Ramps for handicapped accessibility and a roof that is made of concrete are also planned.
Mayor John Moor was concerned that with the new flexibility of the site, which will have a rooftop restaurant as well, will provide enough restrooms for visitors.
“Give me a number,” Moor said.
“Yes, we will have plenty of bathrooms,” said Miller.
Plans for entertainment are also a key element with Carrie Turner, General Manager for Real Estate Services, saying the bandshell is now a private space, not public.
“We can privately program it. The ideal would be to have a tenant who can also program the space,” she said, referring the restaurant tenant.
The site will provide space for shows, plays, and weddings.
“We are looking for maximum flexibility…the tenant will partner with us,” Turner said.
The lower part of the building will also be refurbished with a masonry type of siding, new handrails and plantings.
“We are pretty much restoring the building to its original form,” Miller said.
“The cost of the project is estimated at $600,000 if it is completed within 18 months, Turner said.
