The redevelopment project at the heart of the meeting was introduced by APW Redeveloper LLC, encompassing a two-phase development plan on Ocean Avenue, 1053 Avenue, and Second Avenue. The project’s first phase involves the construction of 44 townhomes, followed by a mixed-use building along Ocean Avenue. This ambitious proposal aims to transform a current parking lot into a vibrant residential and commercial area, with the site bordered by Kingsley Street, 2nd Avenue, and Ocean Avenue.

John Barry, a planner with Higher Grown Associates, provided an overview of the development, emphasizing its compliance with the existing redevelopment plan. The mixed-use building is planned to be two stories plus a penthouse, while the townhouses will be four stories. Barry highlighted the project’s alignment with urban planning goals, noting that the development includes 98 parking spaces, exceeding the required 71 spaces, and adheres to new flood hazard elevation rules with elevated walkways.

Civil engineer Lena Baron further detailed the project layout, explaining the subdivision of existing lots into two – one for the mixed-use building and the other for the townhouses. The design promises to increase on-street parking by reconfiguring access points, while also ensuring compliance with flood regulations.

Architect Jeremy Green presented the architectural vision, focusing on the aesthetic and functional aspects of the townhomes and the mixed-use building. The townhomes will feature three stories with roof terraces, designed to maximize views and use consistent materials like brick and panels for a cohesive look. Green also addressed feedback received during the technical review committee meeting, which led to revisions aimed at enhancing the visual appeal of the elevations.

The presentation included renderings from various perspectives, showing how the buildings would complement the surrounding environment. Green assured attendees that sustainability features would be integrated during the construction phase. The presentation was well-received, with applause indicating a positive response from the attendees.

Following the detailed presentation of the redevelopment project, discussions shifted to another development within Asbury Park – a mixed-use building along Ocean Avenue. Presented by Frank Mvini of MVMK Architecture, this building, referred to as “Building A,” is designed to span from Second Avenue to Third Avenue. It is planned to have a ground floor dedicated to retail use, totaling 4,400 square feet, and includes an open gallery for elevated access. The second floor will house three residential units, each with a penthouse and outdoor terraces.

Mvini emphasized the building’s sustainable features, such as Energy Star-rated appliances, high-efficiency insulation, and LED lighting. The design initially included a color palette of grays and whites, but some participants suggested a more vibrant scheme would better suit the artsy area.

Community initiatives were also a focal point of the meeting. Council Member Chapman highlighted efforts to provide Thanksgiving meals to residents and reminded the community about the Asbury Park toy drive, benefiting over 800 families. The toy drive has several drop-off locations throughout the city, including City Hall.

Matthew Whan from the Park Chamber of Commerce addressed the council, promoting a holiday window decorating contest for local businesses. With 20 businesses already participating, Whan encouraged more to join, especially those on the west side of town, to make Asbury Park “bright and cheerful for the holidays.”

The meeting also included the approval of past minutes and consent agenda resolutions, with particular attention given to a professional services contract for traffic signal installation at Grand and Sunset Avenues. Concerns over pricing led to a motion to table the resolution, which was unanimously supported.