Downtown – Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey
As a frequent visitor to the Jersey Shore, we’d often pass through Point Pleasant Beach on our way to the shore. When an opportunity came up to visit and learn more about the revitalization happening there – it was too great of an opportunity to pass by.
Right away we were struck by the incredible landmark quality historic buildings. This shingle clad gambrel roof structure has a perfect beach vibe – hearkening back to an earlier day and time. Similarly, the unique front gabled building with bay windows tucked into the corner of the second floor has real presence.
Public art in the form of several large scale murals is present throughout Point Pleasant Beach. Each mural also consciously evokes a beach feel. One building has a beach scene with ocean and a stylized sun. Nearby is another wall painted dark blue with a multi-colored jellyfish spanning two floors, and other fishes along the wall behind it. The play clearly is to make connections with the ocean and also art and creative activity.
Several businesses stand out as making important contributions to a business mix that attracts people from the shore in search of unique experiences. Bam Bam Burgers is a locally owned burger shop with a variety of high-end burger concepts. They too embrace art throughout their interior. Branding of the business on the front door and with a blade sign suspended from metal piping gives a high-end vibe.
Last Wave Brewing Company has huge potential to add to the entertainment options in Point Pleasant Beach. They have an ample sized space and ability to program the parking lot outside for special activities and events in the warm weather months.
Some attention has been provided to the streetscape and also wayfinding – though with the potential to do far more. The wayfinding signs, for instance have material on one side only leaving the other side blank. It would be better to have both surfaces filled with material event if it says “Thanks for visiting” or has a piece of artwork to create some visual interest. Likewise, the bike racks with birds are nice but are not the most practical for people riding bikes. They look nice. Bike infrastructure, however, is worth its weight in gold – especially on the shore where ditching the car and having an active lifestyle is a big part of the experience. Creating good centrally located bike parking will prove powerful in attracting the customers that local businesses want.
